Steps to Teaching English Abroad: Language Skills, Certifications, and More

Would you like to teach English abroad but unsure of the steps to take? Whether you are a foreign language enthusiast or aspire to share your knowledge with students worldwide, this article will guide you through the essential steps to becoming an English language teacher abroad. We'll cover the importance of language skills, certifications, and practical advice to ensure your success.

1. Master Your Foreign Language

Why Learn a Foreign Language?

Learning a foreign language is not only a valuable endeavor in its own right but also an asset when teaching English abroad. By deepening your understanding of language acquisition, you can better empathize with your students. You'll gain insights into why certain concepts might be challenging for non-native speakers and see the learning process through their eyes.

Empathy and Skill Acquisition

Empathize with your students by putting yourself in their shoes. You will understand why simple and intuitive things for you may not be the same for them. This perspective will help you design effective teaching methods that cater to diverse learning styles. Additionally, knowing the language your students speak can facilitate clearer explanations and accelerate their learning process.

2. Obtain Relevant Certifications

TEFL Certificate: The Basics

A TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate is an essential piece of paper when you pursue a career in teaching English abroad. This certification not only demonstrates your teaching skills but also showcases your commitment to the profession. The TEFL certificate provides you with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to teach English effectively.

Practical Experience

Beyond the theoretical knowledge, practical experience is crucial. Many TEFL programs offer internships or practical teaching experience, allowing you to apply your skills in real-world scenarios. These opportunities provide valuable hands-on experience, bridging the gap between theory and practice.

3. Apply Your Skills Through Real-World Experiences

Teaching Children and Training Animals

Teaching English to non-native speakers, much like training animals, involves breaking down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps. For instance, teaching a horse to perform a specific movement is similar to instructing a student on sentence structure or vocabulary. You need to break down the task, analyze the process, and provide timely feedback to ensure the student understands and retains the information.

Feedback Timing and Positive Reinforcement

Timing is critical when providing feedback. Quick and precise corrections are more effective than delayed or vague ones. For example, scolding a dog for peeing in the living room 30 minutes after the incident is futile. Immediate feedback, such as giving the dog a sign of disapproval as it happens, reinforces the desired behavior. Similarly, in teaching English, instantaneous feedback and corrections help students correct their mistakes before they become ingrained.

4. Understand Your Students' Backgrounds

Role and Significance of Native Language

For total beginners, especially, knowing their native language can be incredibly useful. It allows you to explain complex concepts more easily and connect new information with familiar ideas. Understanding the similarities and differences between languages can help you anticipate and address the specific challenges your students will face.

Language Connections and Reflexes

For example, if you are teaching English in France and both languages share certain phonetic patterns, you can leverage this knowledge. Teach students that when they see a 'G' in English, it is pronounced like 'J' in French, and vice versa. This method helps them develop a reflexive understanding of certain terms and sounds, making the learning process smoother.

Conclusion

Teaching English abroad is a rewarding and enriching experience. By focusing on language skills, obtaining relevant certifications, and gaining practical experience, you can become a successful English language teacher. Embrace the challenges and enjoy the journey of sharing your knowledge with students around the world.

Keywords: TEFL certificate, teaching English abroad, language skills