TEFL certification can benefit English teachers

TEFL certification can benefit English teachers

The 2010 Sloan Survey of Online Learning reveals that enrollment rose by almost 1 million students from last year. Professionals in a range of fields - particularly teaching - can benefit from online education.

Educators who wish to study abroad can benefit from earning online Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certification, as it may provide job opportunities in other countries. For individuals who cannot commit to the time or scheduling restriction of a classroom-based program, the online option may be a more flexible alternative.

Those who would like to update their teaching methods and techniques may also benefit from enrolling in these courses. The programs typically focus on teaching beginners, grammar sessions, cultural awareness, teaching skills and teaching vocabulary, among other topics.

Participants can take part in conferences with teachers and complete live English as a Second Language tests, for which they will receive feedback.

Most employers of English teachers in non-U.S. countries require applicants to complete a TEFL certification program prior to beginning an assignment, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

By Mark Danson