Embracing TEFL in Chicago with Premier TEFL.

Chicago’s role as a vibrant hub for TESOL/TEFL education is further amplified by its status as a global city, where international events and conferences frequently take place. This global stage offers educators unparalleled opportunities to connect with peers from around the world, share best practices, and stay abreast of the latest trends and methodologies in language education. The city’s commitment to cultural exchange and education is evident in its numerous festivals, workshops, and seminars dedicated to language teaching and learning, providing educators with continuous professional development opportunities.

The city’s educational infrastructure is bolstered by its world-class libraries, digital resources, and research centers, which serve as invaluable assets for TESOL/TEFL educators seeking to enrich their knowledge base and teaching methodologies. Chicago’s schools and universities often collaborate with language education initiatives, offering practical teaching experiences through student-teaching programs and community language learning projects.

Moreover, Chicago’s diverse linguistic landscape is a boon for language educators, offering a living laboratory for exploring language acquisition in multicultural and multilingual contexts. The city’s neighborhoods, each with its own linguistic and cultural identity, provide a rich environment for immersive language teaching experiences, allowing educators to tailor their teaching strategies to meet the varied needs of their learners.

In addition to the professional opportunities, Chicago’s cultural vibrancy and recreational offerings enrich the personal lives of educators, contributing to a well-rounded living and working experience. From jazz clubs and art galleries to parks and lakefront activities, the city offers a multitude of leisure and cultural pursuits that can rejuvenate and inspire educators.

In summary, Chicago’s dynamic blend of cultural diversity, educational opportunities, and global connectivity makes it an exceptional setting for TESOL/TEFL educators. The city not only offers a fertile ground for applying and honing teaching skills but also provides a rich, fulfilling life outside the classroom. For educators looking to make a significant impact in the field of English language teaching while enjoying a vibrant urban lifestyle, Chicago presents an ideal choice.

To teach English abroad with TEFL, most employers require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in any field. Additionally, obtaining a certification is highly recommended. The standard requirement for certification is usually a 120-hour course, although some countries or employers may have specific preferences or requirements. It’s essential to research the requirements of the country or institution where you plan to teach.

Yes, you can still teach English abroad with TEFL certification even if English is not your first language. Many non-native English speakers successfully teach English as a foreign language. However, it’s crucial to have a proficient level of English language skills and fluency, as well as the necessary qualifications and certifications.

While prior teaching experience is often preferred by employers, it is not always a strict requirement to get a job teaching English with TEFL. Many entry-level TEFL positions are available for those without prior teaching experience, especially in countries with high demand for English teachers. However, having some teaching experience or relevant skills, such as tutoring, volunteering, or working with students, can enhance your job prospects and confidence in the classroom.

In most cases, speaking the local language is not a requirement for teaching English abroad with TEFL. English immersion classrooms are common, where only English is spoken to create an optimal learning environment for students. However, having some knowledge of the local language can be beneficial for daily living and cultural integration. Additionally, some employers may prefer or require basic proficiency in the local language, depending on the location and type of institution.

The difficulty of exams depends on what academic level your course is, but with the right preparation and study materials, you can put your best foot forward and pass the assessments with comfort. Make sure to focus on answering assessment questions accurately according to the assignment description and the tips in the question amplification. Practice by writing notes in a study journal about each topic that you cover in your modules to show your understanding of English language teaching methodologies. You will also benefit from completing the interactive activities and reflective tasks throughout your coursework to get a feel for what is expected of you during the actual exam. Remember: there is no one correct way to approach preparing for the exam – just make sure that you are thorough in your preparations!

Yes, teaching English as a foreign language can be very rewarding. Depending on your location, qualifications and experience, you could achieve an annual in excess of US$60,000 pa. In some countries your TEFL salary would be tax free. In addition to pay, teachers also enjoy various benefits such as comprehensive paid training, stable employment with good hours and weekends off, and opportunities for career growth.

As part of Premier TEFL’s customer pledge, we guarantee that you will pass your course or get your money back. Once certified we focus on helping you successfully prepare for getting hired as a teacher of English as a foreign language. There are many factors that can help you achieve success. One important aspect is making sure that you have a well written resume/C.V. and the skills to write a relevant cover letter. It is important to know what employers are looking for, which is why we hosts job coaching seminars monthly for all students and graduates. Additionally, graduates can apply for jobs both online and abroad on the TEFL jobs board.