1. Do I need to login on my course start date?
Although not required, you should definitely log in on your course start date. In order to stay on track, you must log in to the course at least once a day. If not, you may miss important announcements, date changes, etc. You will not be docked any points if you do not log in to your course every day, but it is highly recommended.
2. How much time should I plan to spend each week on this class?
The course is comprised of:
• 150 hours of online coursework – which includes readings, tasks, peer participation, and self-checks. (Required)
• 20 hours of Practicum (Required)
You should plan to allocate roughly 10-12 hours per week on this class. This should cover readings, watching lectures and videos, quizzes, essays, peer participation, etc.
3. Can I finish the course quicker than 11 weeks?
You can work ahead in the class, but you will not get your official TEFL certificate until your class is over. This is because your professor will be grading your assignments week by week. So yes, you can do your assignments ahead of time to accommodate a vacation or if you just have extra time to work ahead but ultimately you will not be able to receive your TEFL certificate early.
4. Can I take this class from anywhere in the world?
Yes, as long as you have access to the Internet and a working computer to complete your course assignments.
5. Will I have access to course materials online after the class is over?
Students will be able to access all course material for approximately 3 months after the completion of the course. An email notification will be sent out to students about one week before their access is closed.
6. Do I need to purchase a textbook for this course?
Students are not required to purchase any extra material for the course. However, it is highly recommended that students purchase a grammar book. Students also have the option to purchase the coursebook in paperback or PDF forms.
7. Will I be able to reach out to my professor with course questions?
You can reach out to your instructor through the following ways:
a. Chat Sessions: Students are not required to attend chat sessions however it is highly recommended that students attend these sessions as it is a great opportunity to ask the instructor questions or to discuss ESL learning and teaching.
b. Email: Your instructor is available by email. You can send your instructor an email at any time of the day or night and will receive a response within 24 – 48 hours. To find more information on your course instructor and contact details, please visit the profile section in your course. Your course instructor is not available by phone.
8. Will I receive feedback on my assignments?
Yes. Feedback can be found under the Grades section. Your instructor will provide feedback and comments on all tasks.
9. Will I be able to reach out to other students in the class?
You can reach out to other students in your online class through the following ways:
a. Chat Sessions: Students are not required to attend chat sessions however it is highly recommended that students attend these sessions as it is a great opportunity to ask the instructor questions, chat with your peers, or to discuss ESL learning and teaching.
b. Peer Participation: Peer Participation is a weekly discussion forum where students learn and interact with course peers through posts. Education research shows that participation in online discussions leads to better learning outcomes. As such, ITA students are required to participate in discussion forums for each chapter. The discussion will begin each week by your instructor posting a topic. Students must then respond with at least two posts— one post to the discussion question and another post in response to a peer’s post.
10. Are there set login times that require me to attend live online sessions or classes?
Students are not required to attend live lectures. However, it is strongly recommended that students attend lectures as this is a time to receive more direct classroom instruction, ask questions, and communicate with peers and the instructor.
Lectures are recorded and uploaded online for students to watch at a later time, however, this will not provide you access to live chat times with your instructor and peers.
11. What is the TEFL practicum?
Practicum is an essential component to a teacher's training process, as it provides valuable insight and experience prior to obtaining independent teaching positions. International TEFL Academy requires that all students accumulate a minimum of 20 hours for TEFL/TESOL certification. These hours can be achieved through observation, tutoring, student teaching or a combination of 2 or 3 of these in an ESL/EFL setting in which non-native speakers are learning new English language skills.
Hands-on experience with English language learners provides an opportunity for teacher trainees to apply teaching principles to real-life situations, build confidence in their skill and pedagogical style, gain exposure to various learning styles and classroom situations, and acquire valuable teaching experience. These components will assist a teacher in feeling more prepared, as well as add a competitive edge during one's job search and interview process.
Please refer to the "MANDATORY UNIT: Practicum Requirements" drop-down for additional details.
12. How long will it take to receive my TEFL certificate?
After a student has completed their certification course and submitted the necessary documents, it will take about 4 to 6 weeks to receive a certificate in the mail. A student will, however, receive a digital certificate once their course is completed and their practicum packet has been reviewed and approved.
13. Can I fail the Online class?
Yes, students must receive a 70% to pass the class and turn in a completed thematic unit.