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

This is one common question that students have when choosing courses - which certificate is best? The acronyms can often be confusing to people who are new to the industry and even at times to those who are involved in it! At present all three terms tend to be used interchangeably to indicate someone who is involved in the teaching of English. There are, however, some subtle theoretical and historical differences that are worth being aware of.

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TEFL - Teaching English as a Foreign Language
Archer College uses TEFL to describe our programs for native speakers of English whether online, part-time or full time. Well known and used widely in the teaching industry, TEFL refers to teaching English in a region where English is not regularly spoken outside the classroom, such as teaching English in Italy or Japan. As many of our students head overseas after training at Archer, 'TEFL' suits our courses. For some reason also, TEFL seems to be the acronym of choice in Europe.
TESL - Teaching English as a Second Language
This acronym refers to teaching English in an environment where English is spoken outside the classroom, such as teaching English to new immigrants or international students in Canada. Here, they are learning English as a 'second language' because these students come to this country with a different first language. This seems to be the acronym of choice in North America.

TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
Archer College uses TESOL to describe our teacher training programs for non-native speakers of English. Also, widely used in the language teaching community, this term is relatively new and is often used as a generic term to include all types of English language classes: TESL or TEFL.

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TESL Canada certification - what is it and do I need it?

Because of the growing number of TESL Certification programs available, it was thought that a regulatory body was needed to make sure that some standards were maintained. This was so that prospective students and the schools that wanted to hire them would know what they were getting! Thus, TESL Canada professional certification was born. To quote the documents on TESL Canada's own pages,

Do I need TESL Canada certification if I am going to teach abroad?

Reports coming in from abroad tell us that, as of yet, TESL Canada is rarely required in teaching situations abroad, although this is slowly beginning to change. Your best bet is to research the area or school where you want to teach and find out what their requirements are. Try the job boards and discussion forums at Dave's ESL Cafe for starters.

Can you guarantee me a job afterwards?

The answer to this one is yes and no. Understand what we mean by 'yes'. There is a huge global shortage of ESL teachers in some countries, especially China. One routinely sees advertisements, which pronounce: Wanted 250 ESL teachers at such and such place immediately, no experience or qualifications needed. For sure we can guarantee you work in such a place. But then so could your next-door neighbor!
Also be aware of TEFL courses that guarantee you work on graduation. This is actually illegal in Canada and as a word of caution, most training organizations that 'guarantee' jobs do so in accordance with their own agenda. Some even make money off you twice, as international recruiters are also paying them. Beware!

At Archer we guarantee to teach you how to teach! That is our mandate. You then set off on your adventure with a respectable qualification and a bucket load of skills. Of course we will do everything in our power to help you in your job search. We support you with reference letters, networking contacts, referrals, inside information on who is hiring, country profiles, job hunting tips and so on.

But ultimately, you have to find your own way. Only you can truly know your own direction and full potential; we can be your guides but the path is yours to walk on. Good luck, the world is a beautiful place to explore and full of fascinating things to discover. An Archer TEFL certificate could be the best place to start!

Why Choose Archer College?

Here are a few good reasons to choose Archer:

Reputation: Archer College Vancouver (formerly Winfield College) has been running TEFL courses since 1996. In fact we were one of the first independent schools in Vancouver to offer this type of training. Over the years our teacher-training course has gained recognition both here and abroad. We often get calls from local schools asking for instructors and in addition have supplied teachers for numerous overseas positions.

TESL Canada certification: Archer College's 150-hour TEFL Program is TESL Canada recognized. This makes you eligible for TESL Canada professional certification if you have an undergraduate degree. TESL Canada cerfification is a separate process to be undertaken by each student individually. The school, however, can assist you in completing the application.

Value for money: Although we are not the cheapest course around, we are certainly one of the best. Just look at what we offer: Two trainers, superb instruction, a real practicum, unlimited resources, free additional materials, lifetime alumni support, limited participants and a fabulous course.

Transparency: Before taking a course with us, if you're still having trouble deciding, we strongly advise you to drop by and see us. Come and see what it's really like. Sit in on an input session, meet some course participants, ask us questions. Then go out and do your research. Check out other schools. When you are ready ask yourself these questions. "Does this program truly inspire me?" "Does it have integrity?" "Does it have a heart?" If you think it does then it is the course for you.

Do I need a certificate or not?

You will apply for the work permit at the same time as applying for the study permit. This work permit will only allow you to work for the company you have been placed