What is it like teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) overseas?

Question

I might apply for a job teaching English as a Second Language overseas (I live in the US). If you've done it before, do you have any advice? I havea four year degree in English but no teaching experience and no certification. Will I be able to get a position?

Answer 1

I'm certified to teach ESL and did it for a while (I taught in China) I know many others who have done the same mostly in Asia.

Things have changed a bit in that, maybe 20 years ago you could pack up to Japan and find lots of work but these days it seems having a TESOL or similar ESL certification is a must as it's not only about being a native English speaker, it's about lesson plans, dealing with school administration, etc.

Being a native English speaker and having a University degree is a must and what many people seem to do, in Japan at least, is get on with a school initially and when that's done, move on to other schools, private tutoring to students or businesses, special "cram" schools, media jobs, etc. So it's definately an eye-opener living in another country and some people stay for years and get really attached to it.

As with anything else, you get out of it what yout put in. Some complain that the schools they work for are too restrictive, i.e. memorization and traditional instruction instead of the communicative, student-centred methods that are taught in TESOL (or any kind of teaching). Depending on the level, teaching ESL can quickly become babysitting and playing games and in some Asian cultures, the popularity of the teacher seems to be the main criterion. There are a few things to get used to like contracts with the school, special wage deductions depending on the country, etc. It may help to find out a bit more about the particular school or country and there are many websites like: http://www.transitionsabroad.com/ that might be informative.

Don't mean to put you off though. It's a great way to travel, meet people and experience other countries in a way that's impossible as a tourist so take it for what it is, a unique opportunity.

Answer 2

If you are an American who wishes to teach English, some of the places that are recommended will be Asia and Latin America. The reason for this is because these areas are tied closely to the United States- Asia through economics, and Latin America through geography. These countries are intent on learning English, and they prefer the "American" English that you'll be able to teach. Hence, you can rest assured that your college or teacher exchange program will have multiple job listings and connections to help get you there smoothly. If you choose to teach in one of these popular areas, the good news is you will have much more opportunities compared to other areas.

On the other hand, if you're an American who dreams of teaching in Europe, it is still achievable but it just won't be that simple. European language centers and colleges are more likely to engage British teachers for the same reasons that Asia and Latin America hire Americans. However, this does not imply that you should give up the idea of teaching in Paris or Roma- it's just a lot more complicated.

For more information on teaching English Abroad, getting a recognized teaching degree, essential teaching courses for a teaching career, please visit the following website: http://teaching.mygeneralknowledge.com/

Answer 3

It's best if you get some training first before you go so that you learn the most effective strategies to not only teach English as a Sec. language, but to also manage a classroom. I would check out the education department for your state. You might also want to look at www.eslcafe.com

Answer 4

Hi Lovethealien,

This article from TeachAbroad.com could help you: http://www.teachabroad.com/teach-article.cfm

Most teach abroad positions needs TEFL Certification so you may also want to check out http://www.teflcertificationabroad.com/search.cfm

Both TeachAbroad.com and TEFLCertificationAbroad.com are operated by GoAbroad.com so it's a pretty comprehensive list of Teach Jobs Overseas and TEFL Certification Programs.

The GoAbroad.com staff took time in verifying most of the language study providers there(look for the light green check, check+, and check++ logo) and there's even a testimonial for some(look for the "speaking" logo).

Good Luck and hope this helps :)
GA

Answer 5

It depends where you are thinking about going. "Overseas" is an awfully diverse place. I would recommend you take a four-week TEFL/TESL course, which will give you a recognized certificate and will help you enormously in the classroom. Once you have this, you can teach in most places.

Answer 6

well you have to know the language of the country you are going to be teaching in. it isn't that easy but i would assume it would be like teaching spanish in the us

Answer 7

if you are a native speaker of english try tiger english, its korean or taiwan.they do have frequent vacant positions with good benefits.