Byron Bell

This research article will highlight and investigate two major aspects of preparing and starting an EFL course to beginner-level students. They are; 1) the approaches (i.e. the mindset, theoretical beliefs and methodologies that a teacher applies to the course, short and long term), 2) the techniques - (i.e. the specific assignments, arrangements and tools/aids utilized to carry out the teacher´s approaches and achieve the student´s goals). The article will move through the various, early stages of planning and teaching an EFL Beginners Course, in (roughly) chronological order. Its focus will only be to shed light on common, recommendable teaching approaches and techinques for an EFL Beginners Course. Along the way, a teacher - in reality - would encounter more, and have to...  [Read more]

  In this TEFL review, Belle describes how she had taught English before taking her course with ITTT but found that she did not enjoy the experience. She decided to take the course in order to get a better understanding of how to teach English. Belle found the course to be really useful and taught her ways of explaining things to students and how to manage classrooms that she was previously unaware of. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. From this...  [Read more]

When choosing the right TEFL course to suit your future plans, it is important to understand the different levels of study involved so you are able to pick the right option that provides the qualifications you really need. While a level 3 course can be completed quite quickly and at a very affordable price, it might not give you the level of qualification that employers are looking for in your chosen destination. Equally, if you plan to volunteer as a teacher or work as a teaching assistant, a level 8 Master’s degree in TEFL will involve a bit more time, effort, and money than you really need to be investing. Check out our course levels page for more details. At ITTT we have a course-level framework that has been designed to make it easy for our trainees to compare our different course...  [Read more]

  In this episode, we cover the pronunciation of the word "bellwether". This word is a noun and describes someone who takes the lead and sets trends. A long time ago, shepherds hung a bell around the neck of one sheep of its flock designating it the leader. Therefore, bellwether is a combination of the words "bell" and "wether", a male sheep that has been castrated. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. We are using Present Tenses in our normal life...  [Read more]

There are many different teaching methods that teachers all over the world use everyday. The type you use depends on the kind of person you are, what style fits you best, and what kind of students you are teaching. I am going to cover a few teaching styles ranging from very young learners to older learners, sharing the many methods that are in use today. The AudioLingualism method, is a style of teaching used in language instruction. It is based on behaviorist ideas, which states that certain living things, in this case humans, could be trained through a system of reinforcement. Correct use of a trait would receive positive feedback while incorrect use of that trait would receive negative feedback. Its exactly like Pavlov's study using dogs, every time the dogs would get...  [Read more]

  So what we're going to do is to run through a series of methodologies that were created mainly in the 1900s that adopted the idea that language learning should be much more communicative, much more natural. The first one is called audiolingualism and it's also called the army method because of where it was developed. Basically, psychology, during the 1950s and 60s, was building up new theories about behaviorism. Perhaps the most famous experiments that were done in this particular area were by Pavlov, where he was showing that most animals undergo a stimulus response mechanism and he had a series of famous experiments, where by ringing a bell, he could cause a dog to salivate, that would be his response, in the expectation of getting some food. This behaviorist idea of stimulus...  [Read more]

I have been teaching English as a Foreign Language in Saudi Arabia for the past three years. During this time I have noticed a number of challenges for both the students and the teachers. In light of the material I have studied as part of an EFL certificate course and from letters and research from fellows in the field, I would like to highlight some of the difficulties in hopes of gaining some insight into problems and how we may best address them.To begin with, there is the challenge of the environment. Arabic is the main means of communication and has a different writing system as well as an extremely rich literary history. (Bello-'Teaching English in Saudi Arabia') This presents challenges in teaching the alphabet as well as practicing the language. Visuals are an ...  [Read more]

Exploring the world as a solo female traveler can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but safety should always be a top priority. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend getaway or a long-term adventure, it’s essential to take precautions to ensure your well-being. In this guide, we’ll discuss important safety guidelines for female solo travelers, including tips for staying safe, packing essentials, and navigating unfamiliar environments. As a solo female traveler, it’s important to be vigilant and proactive when it comes to your safety. Here are some essential tips to help you stay safe during your travels: - Research your destination: Before you depart, take the time to research your destination thoroughly. Familiarize yourself with the local customs, laws, and potential safety...  [Read more]

Discover delicious and nutritious low-calorie meal ideas to help you stay on track with your health and wellness goals. From refreshing salads to hearty soups and protein-packed dishes, we've got you covered with a variety of options that are both satisfying and guilt-free. Whether you're looking to lose weight, maintain a healthy lifestyle, or simply enjoy tasty meals without the extra calories, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure. Let's dive into a world of flavors and ingredients that will keep you feeling energized and nourished throughout the day. Salads are a great way to pack in a variety of nutrients while keeping your calorie intake in check. Start with a base of leafy greens such as spinach, kale, or arugula, and then add colorful veggies like bell...  [Read more]

1. Essential Items for Solo Female Travelers 2. Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers 3. Packing Tips for Solo Female Travelers 4. Conclusion When embarking on a solo journey as a female traveler, it is crucial to pack wisely to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Essential items to consider bringing include a portable charger, a money belt, a universal adapter, a scarf or sarong for modesty and versatility, and a first aid kit. These items can help you stay connected, secure your belongings, adapt to different cultures, and handle minor medical issues while on the road. Safety should always be a top priority for solo female travelers. To enhance your safety while exploring new destinations, consider sharing your itinerary with a trusted individual, avoiding arriving in unfamiliar places at...  [Read more]

Navigating the world as a solo female traveler can be an incredibly empowering and enriching experience. However, it's essential to prioritize safety and preparedness when embarking on a solo journey. Packing smartly can make a significant difference in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some essential packing tips for solo female travelers to help you make the most of your adventure. When traveling solo, it's crucial to keep your belongings safe and secure. Invest in a reliable anti-theft backpack or purse with lockable zippers to deter pickpockets. Consider using a money belt to store your passport, cash, and credit cards discreetly. Additionally, pack a portable door alarm to enhance security in your accommodations. Research the cultural norms and dress codes of your...  [Read more]

Exploring the world as a solo female traveler can be incredibly empowering and rewarding. However, safety should always be a top priority. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a long-term adventure, taking precautions and being prepared can help you make the most of your journey. Here are some essential security tips for female solo travelers that will help you stay safe and enjoy your travels to the fullest. 1. Research your destination: Before you go, take the time to research the safety of your destination. Look into local customs, laws, and cultural norms to avoid inadvertently offending locals or putting yourself in danger. Check travel advisories and read up on any recent developments that may affect your trip. 2. Share your itinerary: Make sure to share your travel itinerary...  [Read more]

1. Overview of the Education System in China 2. The Importance of Education in Chinese Culture 3. Challenges and Opportunities in Chinese Education 4. The Future of Education in China China, a country known for its rich history and cultural heritage, has made significant strides in the field of education. The education system in China is one of the largest in the world, with millions of students enrolled in various levels of education. From primary school to university, the Chinese education system is highly competitive and rigorous, emphasizing academic excellence and discipline. The education system in China is divided into several levels, including preschool, primary school, secondary school, and higher education. Primary education is compulsory and lasts for six years, followed by...  [Read more]

As a solo female traveler, packing smart and efficiently is essential for a successful and stress-free journey. Whether you are embarking on a weekend getaway or a long-term adventure, having the right items in your luggage can make all the difference. Here are some practical packing tips tailored specifically for women traveling by themselves. When it comes to packing clothes, versatility is key. Choose items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits. Opt for neutral colors that can easily be dressed up or down. Pack a few basic tops, bottoms, and layering pieces that can be worn in various combinations. Don't forget to include comfortable shoes for walking and a versatile jacket for different weather conditions. Instead of packing full-size bottles of toiletries, invest...  [Read more]

Exploring the world as a solo female traveler can be an empowering and enriching experience. However, it is important to prioritize safety and take precautions to ensure a smooth and secure journey. Here are some essential safety tips for women traveling alone: Before embarking on your solo adventure, take the time to research your destination thoroughly. Familiarize yourself with the local customs, culture, and laws to avoid inadvertently offending anyone or getting into trouble. Plan your itinerary in advance, including transportation, accommodation, and activities, to minimize any risks. Maintain regular communication with friends or family back home to keep them updated on your whereabouts. Share your travel itinerary with someone you trust and check in with them periodically. Consider...  [Read more]

When we look back on our own learning experiences, most of us will have strong memories of certain teachers, and in some cases this can be for all the wrong reasons. Some teachers might be remembered for being harsh disciplinarians, having a boring monotone delivery, failing to listen to the class, or any number of other negative traits. Thankfully, many of us will also have memories of the teachers who had a positive impact on our education, and this could be for a variety of reasons. If you are planning to teach English online or in a traditional classroom, there are several qualities that we think combine to make a great teacher. If you can develop your teaching strategy to include all these traits you are sure to be remembered by many of your students as a great EFL teacher. Although...  [Read more]

Unlock your teaching potential with a CELTA qualification in the heart of Paris. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the City of Light while gaining the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field of English language teaching. Whether you are a seasoned educator looking to enhance your credentials or a newcomer to the world of TEFL, this course offers a comprehensive and practical approach to language instruction. In this guide, we will delve into the details of pursuing your CELTA qualification in Paris with ITTT. From the benefits of obtaining this prestigious certification to the course structure and requirements, we will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about your professional development. Additionally, we will explore the unique...  [Read more]

I have been teaching now for about one month, so I thought I would sit down and take advantage of this TEFL assignment to really take a good look at myself. I teach English level 3 (out of 10) integrated, integrated meaning that it involves grammar, speaking, writing and listening. In my course I have a text book which I use as my main material. The text book supplies me with a CD for listening exercises, various lesson plan ideas, quizzes and tests. The book is very useful and is called World View 2. My students are all Spanish speakers and the majority are Costa Ricans.To begin positively, I would like to analyze the things I believe I do well as a teacher. In the classroom it is my goal to always get every student involved. I constantly am calling on students and asking...  [Read more]

If you do a quick Google search for ‘TEFL certification’ you are sure to find a wide range of course options. From short-format introductory courses, right the way through to high-end qualifications such as diplomas and degrees. When faced with this dazzling array of potential qualifications, how do you decide which is the right choice for you? Before you make a decision it is a good idea to do a little bit of research into the destination where you plan to work, as some countries have certain requirements when applying for work permits or visas. In other areas where there are a lot of teachers in contention for each vacant position, a high-end qualification or extra specialist teaching certificate could make all the difference. Below we take a look at some of the most common types of...  [Read more]

With a small town feel and the excitement of a big city - Ann Arbor is different from many other places. The city attracts thousands of visitors due to its unique flair. The city is a center for the arts, delicious cuisine and outstanding outdoor activities. Situated on the Huron River, Ann Arbor is blessed with beautiful natural landscapes including some of the finest nature trails. Whether it’s hiking, biking or canoeing, outdoor lovers will find plenty of things to do here. The local University of Michigan opened its doors in 1841 and is still the leading educational institution in the state of Michigan. All of this makes Ann Arbor a premier location to take a TEFL/TESOL course. Nightlife and entertainment are big in Ann Arbor. There are eight breweries in and around the city that...  [Read more]

My article is based on personal experiences as I teach a French Kindergarten class on a voluntary basis. One September afternoon my sons? new teacher asked if I would be interested in teaching English to her Kindergarten class. Standing in front of the class for the first time I realized how dreadful it could be. I didn?t have any real experience, only teaching my children at home. Armed with a few songs, an alphabet chart, and a mini lesson plan, I found myself defenseless in front of a class whose concentration span was short. They just wanted to play. It didn?t help that their teacher was there and kept telling them to be quiet in French. I finally managed to speak to all the children and ask them their names. It was difficult and I had to revert to asking questions...  [Read more]

Once you have completed your training and got that all important TEFL certificate in your back pocket, it is time to start applying for jobs and sending off your CV/resume. Of course, simply sending a resume to a potential employer is not much use without an accompanying cover letter to go with it. Your cover letter is the perfect tool for you to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job and the reasons why you think you are the best candidate. So what exactly should you put in your TEFL cover letter? Although it might be quicker and easier to use the same cover letter for every job you apply for, tailoring each letter to each specific job will generally reap better rewards. It is highly recommended that you do plenty of research into each employer to give each application a personal feel...  [Read more]

Teaching English without a degree is, fortunately, possible. Regardless of your educational history, there are plenty of language schools that will be happy to employ you. True, having a degree opens up more doors and opportunities, but if you don't have one, there is no reason to let that stop you from pursuing your dream of teaching English abroad. The question of whether you need a degree to find a teaching position is arbitrary, as it is with many other occupations. There is no reason why an English teacher with a university degree would be more effective than one without. Certain traits (passion, commitment, and the ability to create rapport with your students, for example) are more important than a college diploma in this career, as they are in many others. It is important to note,...  [Read more]

As the largest country in Latin America, Brazil has a wide range of opportunities for TEFL qualified teachers. The demand for teachers is high in major cities and popular tourist destinations thanks to a rapidly growing tourism industry and a booming economy. If you choose Brazil as your location for teaching English abroad you can enjoy some of the very best beaches in the world, a warm tropical climate, a vibrant nightlife, and an amazing array of natural wonders. English teachers generally choose to live and work in Brazil for the lifestyle rather than the salaries. However, while you won’t get rich teaching here you should be able to earn enough to cover all your expenses and to enjoy a comfortable life away from the classroom. The average monthly income for TEFL qualified teachers...  [Read more]

Ensuring Safety During Solo Female Journeys Introduction Embarking on a solo journey as a female traveler can be an empowering and enriching experience. However, safety should always be a top priority. Whether you are exploring a new city, hiking through remote landscapes, or backpacking across continents, taking precautions and being prepared can make a significant difference in ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip. In this guide, we will provide you with valuable tips and suggestions to help you stay safe during your solo adventures. 1. Research and Planning 2. Packing Essentials 3. Communication and Connectivity 4. Trusting Your Instincts Before embarking on your solo journey, thorough research and planning are essential. Familiarize yourself with the destination's culture, customs, and...  [Read more]

While no teaching job is ever likely to be seen as easy, teaching English as a foreign language promises a rich life full of travel, excitement, and job satisfaction. However, if you want everything to go as smoothly as possible, there are a few things you need to think about before jumping on a plane to distant shores. If you want to start your teaching career in a positive fashion it is important to understand the TEFL job market and to head to where the demand is especially high. As a newly-qualified teacher you are unlikely to have the luxury of picking and choosing exactly where you want to live and work as many of the most sought after jobs in the most popular teaching locations will often be taken by teachers with previous classroom experience. Many first-time teachers look...  [Read more]

You can certainly get a teaching job with an online TEFL certificate. In fact, you can probably get a teaching job without any kind of qualifications or experience whatsoever. The real question is, can you get a quality teaching job with good pay and comfortable working conditions with an online certificate? The answer is still YES, if you make sure you sign up for the best quality online course you can find. The main problem for online trainees is the obvious lack of any practical teaching experience. If you can afford a month-long in-class training course that includes multiple hours of teaching practice in a real classroom, you will be able to apply for a wider range of jobs in most parts of the world. If you choose the cheaper online option, you will find that you will be more...  [Read more]

If you crave adventure and a lifestyle that’s out of the ordinary, Phnom Penh, Cambodia is the perfect location to launch your ‘teach English abroad’ journey. The transformation of Cambodia over the past three decades from a country characterised by occupation and trouble, to a Southeast Asian powerhouse, is phenomenal. There’s an insatiable demand for English language skills in Cambodia - and a chronic shortage of TEFL qualified people to teach English. What does this mean for people just like you? Simple! It means opportunities galore. Phnom Penh is the capital city of Cambodia and the nation’s international gateway. With a population of around 2.5 million people and a relatively confined central business district, it has a noticeably slower pace of life than you’ll find in...  [Read more]

Congratulations if you have recently completed a TEFL certification course and are now looking for that all important first teaching position. As learning English is commonplace in the majority of countries around the world, qualified TEFL teachers rarely find it difficult to secure a good job. However, the level of demand can vary greatly from one place to the next, which also means the level of requirements can vary. What is required in one country might be completely different to the requirements in its immediate neighbor. As mentioned above, the demand for qualified TEFL teachers varies considerably and can have a big effect on where you might end up working in your first teaching position. Certain countries also have stricter rules and regulations than others, as do individual...  [Read more]

There’s only a handful of cities in the world that truly deserve ‘must visit’ status and Hanoi is certainly one of them. While most people can only dream about a fleeting trip to Hanoi – if they’re lucky – ‘living like a local’ and working as EFL teacher in this magnificent city is a realistic proposition for anyone with a sense of adventure. Hanoi is Vietnam’s capital city and the seat of government. It’s noticeably smaller than Ho Chi Minh City in the south, but the pace of life is similarly frenetic. While Ho Chi Minh City is often referred to as Vietnam’s ‘engine room’, Hanoi is more of a ‘grand old lady’. It’s tough to pin down what makes Hanoi such a special place. Is it because there’s history, culture and art on display in seemingly every street...  [Read more]