The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically changed everyone’s life in one way or another and did change the landscape of the TEFL industry, bringing about both challenges and opportunities for English language teachers and students worldwide. The world has seen a huge shift in the way people communicate and work. As the world slowly recovers and adjusts to a new normal, it is important to reflect on the ways in which TEFL has changed and how these changes will shape the future of English language teaching.
So what did the pandemic do to the TEFL market and where lies the demand for TEFL teachers right now?
How The Pandemic Has Changed The TEFL Industry?
The pandemic has highlighted the importance of digital literacy in English language teaching. As more and more teaching takes place online, teachers must be proficient in using a range of digital tools and platforms to engage their students and deliver high-quality lessons. This includes not only video conferencing software but also online resources such as learning management systems, online textbooks, and interactive whiteboards.
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Additionally, it has also accentuated the importance of cultural awareness and sensitivity in English language teaching. As the pandemic has affected different countries and communities in different ways, ESL teachers must be sensitive to the cultural and social contexts in which their students are learning. This includes understanding the impact of the pandemic on students’ mental health and well-being, as well as recognizing the unique challenges faced by students from different cultural backgrounds.
Teaching In The Post-Pandemic Era
Here is how you can still use your TEFL certificate in the post-pandemic era:
1. Online Teaching
One of the most significant changes brought about by the pandemic has been the rapid shift to online teaching. With the closure of schools and language centers and the need for social distancing, teachers and students alike were forced to adapt to remote learning. This has led to the rise of virtual classrooms and the increased use of video conferencing software such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams.
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While online teaching has its challenges, such as technological difficulties and a lack of face-to-face interaction, it has also opened up new opportunities for teachers and students who previously had limited access to English language education.
2. Work From Home Jobs
Another important change has been the increased focus on blended learning, which combines online and in-person teaching methods. Blended learning allows for a more flexible approach to teaching and learning, as teachers can participate to teach from anywhere in the world while also benefiting from in-person instruction when possible.
Being able to teach flexibly and online allows teachers to work not one but many online part part-time jobs making it a great source of side hustle. This approach also has the potential to make English language education more accessible and affordable for students who may not have had the opportunity to study abroad in the past.
3. Skills And Experience Learning
Another significant change has been the increased demand for English language instruction in specific areas such as business English and online English language exams. As more companies have shifted to remote work and online communication, the demand for English language proficiency among employees has increased.
Additionally, with the closure of in-person testing centers, online English language exams such as the TOEFL and IELTS have become more popular, creating a new niche for English language teachers who specialize in exam preparation.
4. Professional Development
The pandemic has also brought about a renewed emphasis on teacher training and professional development. With the rapid shift to online teaching, many teachers found themselves unprepared for the challenges of remote instruction.
This has led to an increased demand for online teacher training courses and professional development opportunities. In response, many TEFL organizations and language schools have developed online training programs and webinars to help teachers improve their digital literacy and teaching skills. So, if you have a TEFL certification , you can be a trainer in one of these institutes and make a living.
5. The Digital Nomad Lifestyle
Remote working became a need of the hour during the pandemic even when it was thought impossible before. Owing to this a lot of countries have begun offering digital nomad visas which means that you can stay longer in a country while teaching online. The financial requirements and the length of the visa vary from country to country.
This type of visa allows you to keep working online but also gives you the flexibility to stay in a particular country. This enables you to explore the country you have decided to reside in while making some bucks simultaneously. This type of working style is great for people willing to explore several places and gain flexibility with their timetable to be more independent in their work and establish a healthy work-life balance.
Some of the popular places offering digital nomad visas include:
- Bali
- Croatia
- Portugal
- The Bahamas
- Greece
- Spain
- Italy
- Argentina
- Dubai and many more
Make A Positive Impact
One thing that this pandemic has taught us is that TEFL teachers still continue to be in demand. The pandemic has opened up online teaching work and there are numerous opportunities available for the one who wants to take it. Nevertheless, the world still requires in-class TEFL teachers are several countries with loads of classroom opportunities. However, before even heading into a job, you first need to polish your resume and upskill your qualifications. Consider pursuing online English teacher training courses to brush up on your teaching skills and become TEFL-ready.