5 Common Myths About Teaching English Abroad—Debunked!
Teaching English abroad is an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in new cultures, explore the world, and gain valuable experience in the education field. But despite its many benefits, misconceptions still surround the idea of teaching abroad. Whether you’re just starting your TEFL journey with myTEFL or already have your sights set on a classroom in a far-off land, it’s important to understand the reality behind the myths. In this post, we’ll debunk five of the most common myths about teaching English abroad.
Myth #1: “You Need to Be a Native English Speaker to Teach Abroad”
One of the most prevalent myths about teaching English abroad is that you must be a native English speaker. While many countries prioritize native speakers, this doesn’t mean non-native speakers can’t teach English.
The reality: Many countries and schools are open to hiring non-native speakers with a strong command of English. For instance, as long as you have a high level of fluency, an understanding of grammar, and a TEFL certification, you can teach English in many parts of the world, including Europe and Asia. In fact, in some regions, non-native English speakers are highly sought after because they can relate to students’ learning experiences better. Countries like Spain, Mexico, and the Czech Republic have a strong demand for both native and non-native English teachers. Moreover, being a non-native speaker could even be an advantage in some cases, as you may have a better understanding of how to teach English to learners who are new to the language.
Myth #2: “You Need to Speak the Local Language to Teach English Abroad”
It’s a common belief that to be effective in the classroom, you must speak the local language. People often assume that teaching English in a non-English-speaking country would be impossible without knowing the language of your students.
The reality: While knowing the local language can certainly help, it’s not a necessity to teach English abroad, especially if you’re in a school or program where English is the primary language of instruction. Many TEFL programs, particularly in countries like China, South Korea, and Japan, provide their teachers with in-depth training in managing a classroom where English is spoken predominantly. You’ll often find that communication in the classroom relies heavily on English, and students are typically encouraged to immerse themselves in the language, which fosters a full English-speaking environment.
Additionally, language barriers can be part of the fun and challenge of living abroad. Teachers develop creative ways to communicate and engage their students, often picking up bits of the local language along the way. If you don’t know the language at first, you can always learn while teaching.
Myth #3: “Teaching English Abroad is Only for Young People”
There’s a widespread assumption that teaching English abroad is a career for young backpackers or gap-year travelers. People often think that in order to teach English overseas, you need to be fresh out of college or in your early 20s.
The reality: The truth is that people of all ages teach English abroad. In fact, many schools and institutions prefer hiring teachers with a little more life experience. Whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, or even older, you bring a wealth of knowledge, patience, and maturity to the classroom, which can be highly beneficial in engaging students.
While younger teachers may be more flexible when it comes to adapting to new environments, older teachers often have a greater understanding of how to handle different teaching challenges and are often better at managing diverse classrooms. Some schools also seek experienced teachers to act as mentors for younger, less experienced educators. So, if you’re worried that age will be a barrier, think again! Teaching abroad is an opportunity for people at any stage of life to explore new cultures and gain valuable professional experience.
Myth #4: “You Won’t Make Enough Money to Live Comfortably”
A common fear for aspiring teachers is that they won’t be able to make a living wage while teaching abroad. It’s easy to assume that salaries for foreign teachers are low, and the cost of living in certain countries might be higher than expected.
The reality: The salary you can earn teaching abroad depends largely on the country, the type of school, and your qualifications. While it’s true that teachers in some countries may not earn as much as they would in their home country, the cost of living in many teaching destinations is significantly lower. For example, in countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Colombia, the cost of living is much more affordable, meaning you can live comfortably on your teaching salary.
In addition to salary, many teaching contracts come with perks like accommodation, airfare reimbursement, and even health insurance, which can offset living expenses. Some countries, such as South Korea and Japan, offer excellent pay and benefits, including free housing and bonuses for finishing contracts. While you may not be earning a high-end salary, you can expect to live comfortably, save money, and have the opportunity to travel around your host country.
For those looking for a comprehensive guide to teaching and traveling abroad, GoAbroad offers extensive resources and job listings across many countries, making it easier to find the right teaching position for you. You can explore their offerings and start planning your next adventure here.
Myth #5: “It’s Easy to Get a Job Teaching English Abroad Without a TEFL Certification”
Some people believe that all you need to teach English abroad is a good grasp of the language, and that you can easily find a job without formal qualifications. After all, how hard can it be to teach your native language?
The reality: While it’s possible to find work without a TEFL certification in certain countries or through certain private tutoring arrangements, the majority of reputable schools and institutions prefer or even require a TEFL certification. Having a recognized qualification not only makes you more attractive to employers, but it also prepares you for the challenges of teaching English as a foreign language.
A TEFL course teaches you essential skills such as lesson planning, classroom management, and understanding student needs, which are crucial for being an effective teacher. Additionally, some countries like Japan and South Korea require a university degree and a TEFL certificate for you to be eligible for a work visa, so not having one could severely limit your job prospects. The certification gives you credibility and makes you a more competitive candidate in the global job market.
Conclusion
Teaching English abroad can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life, but it’s important to understand the realities behind the myths. By dispelling these common misconceptions, you can make an informed decision and better prepare for your teaching journey. Whether you’re a native or non-native speaker, young or old, or whether you’re looking to travel the world or start a career, teaching English abroad offers incredible opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Are you ready to embark on your TEFL adventure? The world is waiting for you!