Why did you decide to get TEFL Certified with ITTT TEFL in Barcelona?
Kait: I chose ITTT TEFL in Barcelona because I had plans to be in the city during the summer of 2013. I had been to Barcelona the previous summer, and loved it. Barcelona also seemed like a nice choice since it would guarantee that I would be working with students whose native language was not English. It was also an advantage that the students’ first language was Spanish, since I already had been hired for an English-teaching job in Ecuador. After researching the program, I saw that it was legitimate and approved by my future employer. I also liked that the program provided career guidance to those who enrolled. This was important for me, because I was looking at teaching English for a longer time period. The program also handled housing accommodations, which took pressure off of me.
Did you teach abroad? How did this TEFL Course impact your experience?
Kait: I have been teaching abroad in Cuenca, Ecuador since September 2013. I love it, and I felt very well-prepared after completing the TEFL Course in Barcelona. The program introduced me to people of different cultures and backgrounds; not only in terms of the students, but my own classmates who were taking the course as well! This exposed me to many different accents and attitudes and behaviors, which I think further strengthened my abilities in English teaching to non-native speakers. The requirements for certification were relevant to the job I would be doing come September. For example, I had to give a one-on-one class to an English student, taking into account his needs and abilities and interests. I also had to attend a class in a completely foreign language and observe how the teacher taught us without ever resorting to English. This was very beneficial and provided me with some teaching techniques to use with my own students.
What is one piece of advice you would offer someone considering this TEFL Course and teaching abroad?
Kait: If someone is considering this TEFL Course, they are probably already a fairly open-minded person. The important thing to remember is that we are all rather similar; we all have fears, hopes, dreams, and loved ones. Cultural and language barriers are not as daunting as they may seem when we keep this perspective. The TEFL Course appropriately prepares people for any cultural obstacles that could surface while teaching English abroad. Teaching abroad is such a rewarding experience; you get the opportunity to help others, but you also learn a lot yourself! So even if you are a teacher, keep in mind that you will be learning so much along the way! Your title will never just be “Teacher,” since if you maintain an open mind; you will be gathering so much knowledge as you work with other students. It’s important to put yourself in their shoes as well.
What was the highlight of your experience?
Kait: The highlight of taking the ITTT TEFL Course was the final project. This was a “Materials Project,” in which I was required to create a lesson plan and teach a class from scratch. Normally, the lead teachers at the school will guide you through drafting a lesson plan, and what topics the students in your class should be learning. However, for the Materials Project, I had to observe the class I would be teaching. I took note of any common errors they made, and what I thought their strengths and weaknesses were. I also paid attention to their age, interests, and concerns. I used this information to create my own lesson plan that catered to their needs. It was fun, because I got to introduce a special topic that I enjoyed (Cirque du Soleil) while targeting what the students needed help with. This project greatly contributed to my ability to create lesson plans for the students I teach now in Ecuador.
Anything else you would like to share?
Kait: It is important for students taking the ITTT TEFL Course to voice any questions, comments, or concerns they may have. This includes questions about the grammar or vocabulary, how to tailor or alter lesson plans, and how to establish rapport with students. The last point is very important, because the teacher-student relationship is crucial for success in the classroom. If students do not feel comfortable with the teacher, both student and teacher will come across difficulties. Also, being in Barcelona is such a joy, and it can be difficult to focus on your work when the nightlife, beaches, and culture of Barcelona are beckoning you. It’s important to keep a nice balance of work and play, for once you have a job, this will become a daily occurrence.