Learning The English Language

TEFL

What is TEFL?

TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. TEFL usually occurs in the student’s own country, a country where English is not the primary language spoken. The term is used in conjuction with EFL (English as a Foreign Language), to refer to students of English in a non-English speaking region. By contrast, TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language) is usually taught in an English-speaking country to students whose first language is not English (ESL- English as a Second Language).

The terms for teaching English varies around the world. In the UK, Ireland and New Zealand the term ESL was replaced with ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), so TESOL was used to Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. However ESL is still used in the USA, Canada and Australia. Another variation is ESD (English as a Second Dialect), used predominantly in Australia and Canada. The term is used for teaching standard English to speakers of a creole or non-standard variety, typically Indigenous peoples.

Teaching English

Teaching English in a non-English speaking country is done with the purpose of giving students more opportunities for study and career progression. By learning English and passing an English exam to prove their proficiency (such as the IELTS or the TOEFL), students are able to apply for study or employment abroad where that is the primary language spoken.

TEFL is a great opportunity for native English speakers to see the world, experience life in a foreign country and contribute positively to another nation. The qualifications needed vary from country to country, some requiring a degree, teaching experience, and certificate in English teaching (such as TESOL). Other nations may only require secondary education with a teaching certificate, or even for the teacher to be a native English speaker with teaching experience. Conditions of course vary as well, depending on the employer and the country’s level of development.