TEFL, TESL, TESOL - What's the Difference?

Did you know that TEFL, TESL, TESOL are not certifications or qualifications? These terms refer to where and whom you are teaching English. These terms are often used in place of the other. Sometimes, it can be confusing to remember them.

Basically, all of these certifications allow teachers to teach English. However, their main difference is the location and specified topics. Among the three, TEFL is the most highly regarded certification. The TESL and TEFL have more specific courses than TESOL.

TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language)

This program is meant for English speaking countries for students whose first language is other than English.

TESL prepares educators to teach English to non-English speakers. However, it differs because of its teaching location. A qualification in TESL is an advantage for teachers who want to work in English speaking countries such as United States, Australia, Canada, and United Kingdom.

This is a great choice if you want to build a career in your home country.

TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language)

This program is meant for countries where English is not the primary language and is not a lingua franca.

Thus, TEFL courses will require you to learn how to handle a classroom of students learning English as a second language in a place where English is not commonly spoken. Non-native English speaking Asian countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea have demand for TEFL certified English teachers. Similarly, some countries in East and West Asia, Africa and the Middle East, Europe and South America also require English teachers to teach the language.

A certificate in TEFL is required for some types of job application, and can be regarded as an added skill. TEFL teachers can land a job as an ESL teacher, entry-level teacher, experienced licensed teaching positions, and administrative roles.

TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)

It is a general name for the field of teaching TESL and TEFL.

A TESOL course provides basis for teachers to teach both non-native English countries and within English speaking countries. A good start is to acquire TESOL qualification if you are open to teaching abroad. It is a relatively new qualification compared to TEFL. Thus, some employers may not be able to recognize it without a valid certificate to teach ESL.

Tips in Selecting the Right Course for you

If you want to teach English, you need to find the right qualification for you. Ask yourself these questions to know which qualification suits you.

What are the admission requirements to the program?
Who accredits the training program?
Where do you want to teach?
What are the general requirements for English teachers in that country/region?
What are their credentials/qualifications?
Do potential employers want you to complete a practicum placement?

Once you decide where to teach and who to teach, you must take these points in mind:

Teaching in Canada
Canada is one of the major destinations in the world to teach. If you want to teach English to adults in Canada, you must hold a bachelor’s degree, a TESL/TESOL certificate from accredited programs in TESL Ontario or TESL Canada.

Teaching overseas
Teaching abroad can also be rewarding. Contact the Ministry of Education in the country where you want to work to get more information. Applicants must have at least a Bachelor’s degree and a TEFL/TESL/TESOL certification. Most employers would be more focused on your training than the name of your certificate.

Teaching in Canada and overseas
If you like to get both options, you can invest in a program of TESL in Ontario and Canada so you can teach English both in Canada and abroad.

Tips for First Time TEFL Teachers

1. Learn the native language
English shouldn’t be the only language you know, especially if you teach overseas. You need to learn a few words, to phrases, and sentences. This will aid your students in learning English and expand your knowledge as well.

2. Use flashcards
Using something colourful and visual makes it much easier for the kids to remember the words.

3. Ask for team names
Try to make classes as fun as possible. When hosting games, try asking them for team names. This gives them more incentive to win.

4. Bring prizes for lessons
Split the class into two teams or, if it’s a smaller class, put each of their names on the board. Each team or individual gets a star for winning games, answering questions or spelling words. At the end of the lesson, they either get stickers for each of their points, or the student with the most points gets a small prize.

5. Start your class with a positive mood
A smile is contagious, just as your mood. Always start the class on a positive note. This will motivate your students and makes learning fun and enjoyable.