About Short-Term TESL/TEFL Programs
With the diversity of international contexts that English language teaching occurs, many of those starting in the field of ESL/EFL teaching look for an entry-level credential through short-term certificate programs. These types of short-term certificate programs typically are full-time intensive programs or a series of online courses designed to run 4-6 weeks or so. Some accredited post-secondary institutions offer TESL/TEFL programs, though independent TESL/TEFL certificate programs usually are not accredited nor affiliated with accredited institutions.
Independent short-term certificate programs are different from most academic plans because they typically do not grant degrees, but instead award certificates to those students who complete the educational goals per the program guidelines. Completing a short-term TESL/TEFL certificate is not the same as teacher certification; that credentialing process is more in-depth and meets the qualifications to teach in settings like public schools in the United States.
THE LONDON COUNCIL advises that independent TESL/TEFL certificate programs be taught by competent and experienced educators familiar with the English language teaching. Such programs should balance theory and practice respecting pedagogy and methodology in additional language learning, including facets of linguistics, structure of English, applied linguistics, methodology of teaching, literacy development, curriculum and materials development, sociolinguistics, testing and cross-cultural communication. Additionally, guidelines for these programs should offer at least 100 instructional hours and supervised student teaching and observed classroom assessments. Online professional components of short-term TESL/TEFL certificate programs should also be taught by experienced and effective teachers with knowledge of TESL/TEFL.
Organizations that sponsor independent TESL/TEFL programs should provide transparency and quality control, along with improvement in areas like program development, instruction, planning, testing, and administration that are linked to stated learner outcomes. Any claims of accreditation, for instance by adherence to particular academic standards, should be clearly backed up with valid documentation. Appropriate explanations and definitions must also be provided related to the certificate provided.