Why take a course with more than 120-hours?

Taking a TEFL/TESOL course with more than 120 hours can offer several advantages for those looking to pursue a career in English language teaching. Here are some reasons why a longer course may be beneficial:

1. In-depth Understanding: Longer courses provide more time for comprehensive coverage of essential topics such as lesson planning, classroom management, and language skills development.
2. Practical Experience: Extended courses often include more opportunities for practical teaching experience, which is crucial for gaining confidence and honing teaching skills.
3. Specialization: Longer courses may offer modules or specializations in specific areas such as teaching young learners, business English, or exam preparation, allowing you to tailor your training to your career goals.
4. Employability: Some employers, especially in certain regions or institutions, prefer or require candidates to have completed a course with a higher number of hours to ensure a certain level of knowledge and expertise.
5. International Recognition: Courses with more hours are sometimes recognized by accrediting bodies or institutions internationally, which can enhance your credibility as a qualified English language teacher. By opting for a course with more than 120 hours, you can acquire a more comprehensive understanding of TEFL/TESOL methodologies, gain valuable practical experience, and increase your chances of securing desirable teaching positions.

How long does it take to complete a 120-hour course?

A 120-hour TEFL/TESOL course typically takes around 4-12 weeks to complete, depending on the study pace and the course structure. Here are some factors to consider when determining the duration of completing a 120-hour course:

• Study Pace: The time it takes to finish the course can vary based on how many hours per week you dedicate to studying. Some students prefer an intensive schedule and may complete the course in a shorter period, while others may opt for a more relaxed pace, extending the duration.
• Course Format: Online courses often offer more flexibility in terms of study time, allowing students to progress at their own speed. In-person courses may have a set schedule, which can impact the overall completion time.
• Practicum Requirements: Some courses include a practicum component where you gain hands-on teaching experience. If your course includes this, the practicum hours will add to the total time needed to complete the course.
• Other Commitments: Your availability and other commitments, such as work or family responsibilities, can also influence how quickly you can finish the course. Keep these factors in mind when planning your study schedule to ensure that you can successfully complete the 120-hour course within your desired timeframe.

What are the benefits of taking a course with more than 120 hours?

Taking a TEFL/TESOL course with more than 120 hours can offer several benefits:

1. In-depth Content: Longer courses provide more comprehensive coverage of teaching methodologies, lesson planning, classroom management, and language skills development. This depth of content can better prepare you for the challenges of teaching English as a foreign language.
2. Practical Experience: Extended courses often include more practicum hours, giving you the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real classroom settings. This hands-on experience is invaluable for gaining confidence and honing your teaching skills.
3. Specialization: Longer courses may offer specialized modules or elective options, allowing you to focus on specific areas of interest such as teaching young learners, business English, or exam preparation. This specialization can make you more marketable to potential employers.
4. Employability: Many employers prefer candidates with more extensive training, such as courses exceeding 120 hours. Completing a longer course demonstrates your commitment to professional development and can enhance your job prospects in the competitive field of English language teaching.
5. Recognition: Some countries or employers have specific requirements regarding the number of training hours for TEFL/TESOL certification. A course with more than 120 hours may meet these criteria and enhance the recognition of your qualifications.

Are there any industry standards for course hours in this field?

Yes, there are industry standards for course hours in the field of TEFL/TESOL certification. The most common standard is the 120-hour TEFL/TESOL certification course, which is widely recognized and accepted by employers worldwide. Here are some key points regarding course hours in this field:

• The 120-hour TEFL/TESOL certification course is considered the minimum requirement by many employers, language schools, and educational institutions.
• This course duration ensures that teachers receive sufficient training in essential areas such as lesson planning, classroom management, teaching methodologies, and language skills development.
• While the 120-hour course is the standard, there are also shorter courses available, such as 60-hour or 100-hour programs. However, these shorter courses may not always meet the requirements of certain employers or visa regulations.
• Some specialized TEFL/TESOL courses, such as those focusing on young learners or business English, may have different hour requirements based on the specific teaching context. In conclusion, the 120-hour TEFL/TESOL certification course is the industry standard, providing teachers with a solid foundation in teaching English as a foreign language.

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