I don’t actually know anything about GeoVisions, the company that sponsors this volunteer abroad experience, but what I do know is that it looks pretty amazing. I don’t know if it’s the photo of the guys on the waterslide that appears on the homepage, or the fact that I work in an office without any windows, but I have never want to be summer camp counselor in Italy more than I do at this very moment.

But let’s take a look at the details of GeoVisions programs to see if it lives up to the hype that I have created:

The bulk of GeoVisions’ programming appears to be the Conservation Corps and Conversation Partners programs, which place people around the world (Italy, Costa Rica, Galapagos, Jordan, Ghana, Lebanon, Turkey, Thailand…even an ecolodge! The Conversation Corps and Conversation Partners programs are essentially volunteer placements, but your "volunteer job" is just speaking English to your host family for a few hours a day. You pay a flat fee of about $1,500 (depending on the location) for room & board, insurance, airport pick-up and general support. Any time not spent conversing is yours for travel and exploration. Conversation Partner placements are similar to Conversation Corps, but you might be working at a central location (like a business) offering personal tutoring to local workers, rather than with a family.

There are a few paid opportunities available through GeoVisions as well, although interestingly enough they also charge a fee for those. Essentially, you pay upfront for the placement, airport pick-up, and on-the ground support and then the placement itself pays you a wage. There are three kinds of paid jobs abroad through GeoVisions: Nanny jobs, Teaching jobs, and paid internships. As I’m writing this, there is one paid internship on the site, which is offered in Chile. The job is interviewing students who are applying for visas to travel to the United States, which actually sounds very cool. The au pair jobs are all over, including Amsterdam, New Zealand, Spain and Turkey, and they include airfare (reimbursement), about $475/year, visa fees, and health insurance. That’s really not a bad deal when you’ve only paid a $950 program fee! Teaching jobs are available in Thailand and South Korea, and visa, airfare and insurance is included in the program fee.

About the job: I could definitely see some themes coming through in some of the first-person testimonials from camp counselors/tutors, and even in the job description. Specifically, people don’t view the experience as "work" so much as a travel and cultural immersion experience. That’s probably why it actually costs money to do the program, about $1,500 for the summer (4-8 weeks). This includes room & board (two meals per day…and apparently the housing on the beach and just a "bike ride away" from camp), airport pickup in Rome (but NOT airfare), GeoVisions support on site, and health insurance. They actually have really great health insurance (dental!), which isn’t always common for these types of programs. In some cases, they’ll even give you the bike!

What they need from you is 4-5 hours of your time speaking English. The program requires that prospective tutors be native English-speakers, and obviously have some comfort interacting with children. Tutors play games with the kids, and teach them the basics: colors, number, basic nouns. You don’t need to have any teaching experience; GeoVisions gives you a "bag of tricks" with everything you need to get started. And while knowledge of Italian is not required, I’m sure it’s very helpful.

If this feels like the right fit for you, and you are prepared to pack up your giant back-pack and go, you’d better act fast. They are accepting counselors for a July 9th start date (that’s less than two weeks away!) for a 4-week stay.

So how do you know which teach abroad jobs are legitimate and which aren’t? And beyond that, how do you decide which teach abroad job best suits you?

1) Know the law

As we’ve said many times on this blog, work abroad jobs are really dictated by visa laws, and your ability to earn income in a host country depends on the type of visa that you have. If you are thinking about teaching abroad, you generally have two options: get your own visa and find a job once you are in-country, or choose an organization that will sponsor your visa. The second choice is generally easier, and can expedite your teach abroad experience.

However, just because the teach abroad organization is doing most of the work, doesn’t mean that you don’t need to do some homework too. In fact, the best way to spot a teach abroad placement organization or school that may not be all the ad says is by their claims about getting visas – since most countries will require at least 30 days for a work visa, and organization that promises to deliver one faster than that may not be the best choice for you. However, knowing the rules of your host country can help you to make an informed choice.

2) Age matters

We’re not talking about the your age here, but the age group of your students. Some people are very comfortable teaching young children, while others may want to work with adults in a one-on-one setting. When choosing a teach abroad program, you should be aware of how  English teachers are placed as early as possible. As an English teacher abroad, you may not have complete control over the type of classroom you in which will be teaching – many organizations simply place teachers to meet demand. Others allow the teacher to state their preference foe age group and learning level. If you feel like you will be most successful in a specific type of English learning classroom, make sure that the placement process of your school or teaching organization will support that once you are in the host country.

3) Certification also matters

There are many teach abroad jobs out there – search through Craigslist, Idealist or other work abroad search engines and you cannot avoid calls for English teachers abroad. Very often, previous experience teaching English is not an important component of your application to teach abroad. Similarly, not all placement agencies and schools require that you have TEFL or TOESL certification before you apply, and might even sponsor you to take the test. This could save you a lot of your own time and money upfront. However, already having certification and experience could actually help you command a higher hourly wage as an English teacher abroad. Many schools that hire your before you have taken the TEFL or TOESL may actually pay you less in the long run.

4) Wages should be negotiable.

One of the most important aspects of teaching abroad is wages – you need to know that you will be able to pay bills, eat and travel using the money that you make as an English teacher. When choosing the right teach abroad job, wages should be discussed with the school or placement organization upfront. Wages will vary greatly from country to country, region to region. Many English teachers in Japan can command up to $50 an hour for teaching English to businessmen. In developing countries, wages might be closer to $500 per month to teach young children. You’ll need to know not only what your wages are going to be, but whether or not they will increase based on performance, if you can work extra hours to earn more, or if you are allowed to pick up additional work through other clients. Many English teachers abroad have said that private tutoring can be a great way to earn some extra money abroad, but that this has to be checked with placement organization first.

One of the great things about working abroad in today’s world is the Internet is available to help bring different experiences together – when you are considering each of these aspects when choosing a teach abroad job, you might what to hear from actual teachers. There are many message boards and resources out there that allow you hear directly from people who have taught abroad, which can help you decide which teach abroad program is right for you.

But how does it feel to be taught English as a foreign language? As a native of England, I will never know for sure, but have personally experienced the gut-wrenching terror of not understanding a single word my teacher is saying.

Often, people who set out to teach English abroad cannot speak the native tongue of the country they visit. This is more likely to be the case if they are on a limited placement – for a three to six-month project, it might seem an unnecessary expense and waste of time to complete a TEFL course, especially if they are joining a volunteer project where other skills are needed. In fact, Working Abroad Magazine has an interview with a teacher who was successful teaching in South Korea without taking a training course.

But as someone who knows how it feels to be on the other side of the desk, let me explain how important it is you, as a teacher, know what you are doing.

Before I set off for a volunteering project in Peru, I had no idea not speaking Spanish would be a problem. The NGO I was to work for reassured me that English was widely spoken, and that I would soon pick up enough of the local lingo to get by.

Not so.

When I touched down after 21 hours of travelling, I was horrified to discover that no one could decipher my words, and vice versa. I was completely powerless, and desperately turned to my Spanish teacher for help. Naturally, she too could not speak English.

Learning another language when the teacher does not speak yours is frustratingly difficult. Not only do you struggle to pronounce the new words and learn the grammar, you cannot easily ask questions or explain if you do not understand.

I found myself clutching at half remembered French lessons, trying to recall the names of the tenses and apply them to the Spanish words in front of me.

If you choose not to have formal training, at the very least draw up a few lesson plans. Take along props to explain verbs and nouns – a doll can illustrate plenty of actions. Better yet, work on your charades skills – acting out a word can make it easier to understand.

Tenses are best approached in list form, “I am, I was, I will be”, but can be tantalisingly awkward to explain.

Working Abroad Magazine has some great advice on where to get proper training to teach English as a foreign language, such as a profile on TEFL Worldwide Prague.

Patience is easily the most important attribute someone teaching students in a foreign language must have.

I often felt enraged with myself for not being able to pick up the words quickly, or frustrated when forgetting important vocabulary stopped me from answering a question. If you teach adults, it is likely your students will feel the same way, and a barrage of English in their direction, however sympathetic, will only make matters worse.

If your class is full of children, you face a more difficult obstacle: boredom. Kids who find things difficult – and know they can say what they like without you understanding them – can be unruly and disruptive. Yet they usually want to learn, and engaging their enthusiasm is the best way to encourage them.

Try playing games – snap is always a good one – or drawing pictures. Repetition is important as well – all too often I found myself grasping for a word I knew I should know, but could not remember. Setting homework can backfire, but is generally a good idea – you may find your students do not bother to complete it, but at least it provides a tangible link from one lesson to the next.

Above all – persevere. It may sometimes seem like your students do not care or are not trying, but those who think their future relies on the ability to converse in English will remember you forever if you do your job well.

For more information on how to obtain a recognised TEFL qualification before you leave, pay a visit to these sites: www.tefl.co.uk/, http://www.i-to-i.com/tefl/, www.cambridgeesol.org/exams/teaching-awards/celta.html, www.trinitycollege.co.uk/site/?id=201

WORKING ABROAD MAGAZINE -

“The TRUSTED guide to working abroad, including thousands of amazing jobs in incredible places.”

www.workingabroadmagazine.com

To learn to teach English, you have to go back to school. Well almost. TEFL Worldwide Prague does exactly what it says on the tin. Accepted around the globe, this 4-week certified course in the Czech Republic’s capital, teaches you the trade of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), and is the passport to finding your dream job in the world’s most exotic places.

TEFL Worldwide Prague

The highly reputed British and American owned school started back in January 2004, and is the brainchild of Cheryl Drabova, Terry Prosser and Paul Whitaker, who between them have over 30 years experience training teachers and recruiting students to teach English abroad. So just what is so good about teaching English abroad? “This is the perfect way for someone to live abroad whilst earning an income”, Cheryl tells us, “it’s an opportunity to experience another culture, learn another language, and add international experience to your CV. Teaching abroad really is the easiest way to live abroad and with the qualification, you’ll be able to travel and work full-time in another country.”

There is no doubt the demand for English teachers abroad is greater than ever. In today’s world English is the universal language used in travel and business. Students’ requirements for achieving a high level of proficiency in English are steadily increasing, therefore creating a growing need for native-speaking English teachers.

So with the high demand already there, why would a budding TEFL teacher require a certificate to work abroad? “I’m sure there are some schools out there that would hire people without a TEFL certificate but it wouldn’t be beneficial for the student or teacher,” Cheryl explains, “just because you speak English doesn’t mean you can teach it. TEFL training is specific and teaches the methodology and approaches used in teaching English as a foreign language. You’d have a significantly better chance of securing employment with a TEFL Certificate.”

A browse at any TEFL jobsite such as www.eslcafe.com and www.tefl.com recognizes that a TEFL qualification is well valued and often essential to land a well-paid overseas teaching job. The demand for English teachers is increasing, but so are the requirements for applicants interested in teaching abroad. TEFL Worldwide Prague certainly has their stamps of approval. Accredited by the Ministry of Education and a member of the American Chamber of Commerce in the Czech Republic, as well as IATEFL (International Association of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language (www.iatefl.org), the course is recognized by language school employers globally. The industry standard is at least 100 hours, and a minimum of 6 hours of teaching practice. TEFL Worldwide’s course is 124 hours and offers 8 to 10 hours of teaching practice observed by a qualified teacher trainer. TEFL Worldwide Prague will certainly give you the skills and knowledge to help you feel confident in teaching English abroad.

Besides offering a professional and top quality training course, TEFL Worldwide Prague helps graduates find exciting teaching positions. During and after the course the staff will provide you with information on contacts for language schools and current job openings throughout Europe, Africa, Asia, and South America. Jobs are available worldwide and year-round so it doesn’t matter which session you choose. After help with a covering and reference letter, on average graduates receive several TEFL job offers and are working within 2 weeks after the course!

The opportunities for working abroad once qualified are endless and last a lifetime. What’s more is that you can definitely earn great money teaching abroad. In general, English teachers work 20-25 hours teaching a week, and with a bit of private tutoring too, you can certainly make enough to live a comfortable lifestyle with some extra money for entertainment and travelling. Positions exist in language schools, companies, primary and high schools and colleges. You can also teach private students on the side to supplement your income. It varies around the world of course, but as an example, Germany or Spain in Western Europe might earn you from 8 to 22 Euros an hour. Many teachers also jet across to the Middle East, or Taiwan, Japan or South Korea in Asia, where most save enough to pay off their student loans and credit cards, pocketing up to 3000 $(US) a month! Check out the teaching English abroad section on JobMonkey for more information.

Nothing in life is free though, so just how much does the course cost? Well its 1300 Euros (1700) for the 4-weeks tuition, and can include a private room in an apartment for about 330 (440) Euros for 30 nights. It sounds pricey, and Cheryl agrees it is competitive, “we fall pretty much in the middle for the cost of TEFL courses around Europe. The operating costs are quite high not to mention the taxes especially in a country like the Czech Republic where the sales tax is 19%”. We at WAM have researched the market and can agree that it is a fairly typical price for a course that includes a world-renowned certificate, as well as complete orientation in Prague. Not to forget that living costs are also low; a meal and a beer at a Czech restaurant will set you back just 5 Euros.

And yes, there is Prague. A historical, cultural, and architectural jewel of a city, nestled in the heart of Eastern Europe, and a stones throw from other major European cities such as Berlin, Krakow, Budapest, Vienna and the Austrian Alps. The location boasts a splendid setting to spend your free time out of class, as well as the opportunity to hop on a bus, train or plane to travel for the weekend and see the sights.

As for the people who will be learning/teaching alongside you, well Cheryl describes the ideal candidate as a people person and having a positive attitude and enjoys working with people from different backgrounds and cultures, “such individuals include recent college graduates who want to gain international experience and travel abroad, professionals who are looking for a change in their career or life, and even tradesmen and women who want a totally new experience, as well as individuals who would like to spend their retirement years teaching English abroad.”

Now’s your chance to choose where to work in the world’s most exhilarating places. It’s time to wipe the dust off your dictionary and polish your apple for Sir! Going back to school with TEFL Worldwide Prague has never been so rewarding.

To find out more about TEFL Worldwide Prague and apply, visit www.teflworldwideprague.com.

How long is your contract?

I have been teaching here for 5 months. My contract is for one year, but I plan on coming back to teach for an additional year.

What was the salary like?

The average teacher makes around 2.2million won per month, which includes housing. The won has not been doing so great these days so English teachers have seen a drop in their salary. However, I came here to experience a new culture and meet new people, which is exactly what I have been doing. I am still able to send money back to the states, pay off college loans, and still have spending money in South Korea.

English Teaching Jobs in South Korea

Would you recommend teaching abroad?

Teaching English abroad is definitely the way to go. It is a great way to explore the world, meet amazing people, and get real world experience all while getting paid to do it. It is the perfect job for recent graduates, or anyone for that matter, who don’t know what career path they want to pursue.

Do you need to get a TEFL qualification to teach in South Korea?

The only thing you need to teach English in Korea is a 4-year degree. You do not need a TEFL qualification to teach in South Korea. However, those with TEFL qualifications, education degrees, or experience with teaching will receive a higher salary.

How did you prepare for teaching in the classroom?

I went to my college professors for help. All of my professors were extremely excited about my opportunity and eager to share their advice. I still keep in touch with them and continue to get advice from them. Once you are here, it is also helpful to ask your English-speaking co-workers for any advice they may have.

What was your day-to-day routine?

The usual schedule for English teachers is 3-10pm or 4-11pm with an hour lunch break. My school has four, 70 minute class periods per day. I spend the beginning of my day prepping for each class. The rest of the day I am in the classroom or enjoying a break period.

What’s the nightlife like?

The nightlife in Seoul is absolutely crazy! It is a 24-hour city with people up at all hours of the day and night. There are tons of foreign districts filled with people from all over the world who are simply enjoying life. You meet so many people who are teaching English, so it is great to know that you have a common bond with someone wherever you go.

What activities did you get up to outside of teaching?

My favourite activity is hiking on the weekends. I also enjoy visiting the many temples and other various sites around Korea. The ocean is really close, so it is always fun to take a weekend trip and soak up some sun. Shopping is huge here so I obviously go shopping as often as possible!

Is there much opportunity to travel?

It is possible to travel to other countries, but you have to do careful planning and make sure you give your employer plenty of notice before you travel. Most teachers receive 10 paid vacation days. There are also a lot of Korean holidays on Friday or Monday, which free up your weekend for any type of trip.

What was the highlight of your experiences?

My best times have been meeting all of the amazing people and eating the delicious Korean food! I love living in such a diverse city with so much action. Every day is a new experience for me.

Were there any difficulties teaching in South Korea?

Teaching has definitely been the easiest job I have ever had. The first couple of days can be quite challenging as you are adjusting to a new culture as well as a new job. You have so many people to go to for help and advice. Prior to this, I had no teaching experience, and I have been doing just fine!

What qualities do you think someone needs to teach in South Korea?

Most people think that you have to have an education degree to be a good teacher, but I do not agree with that. Some of the most important aspects of a great teacher are having an open mind and one who enjoys being around children. Korean children are so eager to learn from a foreign teacher that it really makes teaching so much easier and enjoyable.

How can they apply?

I am actually a recruiter so you can e-mail me at meghanpfaff@yahoo.com. You can also check out the website at www.eslpia.com where you can fill out an application and get additional information on teaching in South Korea.