What is ESL - EFL - ELT - ESOL - TESL - TEFL - TESOL - CELTA - TKT ? Kris Amerikos Language Teaching

Summary

In this video, Chris Americo provides valuable insights into the language teaching business, focusing on key terms like ESL, EFL, ELT, and TESOL. He explains the differences between these terms, clarifying common confusions, and emphasizing the importance of results over labels. Chris shares his extensive experience as a teacher, trainer, and business consultant, offering advice for those starting or managing a language teaching business. He highlights certifications like TEFL and CELTA and stresses the significance of understanding the practicalities of teaching English to non-native speakers. The video encourages viewers to focus on skills and effective results.

Takeaways

• 😀 This channel is dedicated to helping people start, manage, or grow a language teaching business, with a focus on ESL/TEFL, ELT, and ESL professionals.
• 😀 Chris Americo has extensive experience in the language teaching business, including teaching, training, business ownership, and consulting since 2009.
• 😀 The main difference between ESL (English as a Second Language), EFL (English as a Foreign Language), and ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) is based on the learner’s relationship to the language and their environment.
• 😀 While the terms ESL, EFL, and ESOL have specific definitions, professionals in the industry may use them interchangeably based on location and personal experience.
• 😀 ESL is the most widely used term globally for teaching English to non-native speakers, though EFL and ESOL may be used in specific contexts or regions.
• 😀 The certifications TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language), CELTA, and TKT are important for becoming a qualified English language teacher.
• 😀 TEFL and CELTA are both certifications for teaching English as a foreign language, but they differ in cost, depth of study, and requirements.
• 😀 A good language teacher must have specific skills to help students effectively, regardless of whether they are teaching ESL, EFL, or ESOL.
• 😀 Knowing the terminology in the ESL and TEFL industry is important, but what really matters is achieving successful teaching outcomes for students.
• 😀 Chris offers free strategy sessions for anyone looking to improve or start their language teaching business, focusing on results and growth.

Q & A

What is the purpose of this video?

The video aims to explain the differences between terms like ESL, EFL, ELT, and TEFL in the language teaching business, helping viewers better understand these concepts and how to navigate the industry.

What does ESL stand for, and who typically uses this term?

ESL stands for English as a Second Language, and it is most commonly used in the United States, especially in college or university programs for teaching English as a foreign language.

How does EFL differ from ESL?

EFL stands for English as a Foreign Language, and it refers to teaching English to people who are not in an English-speaking country. ESL refers to teaching English to people living in English-speaking countries.

What does TEFL stand for, and how is it different from ESL or EFL?

TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. It's not just a term for teaching English, but also a certification. Unlike ESL or EFL, TEFL is specifically focused on the qualification to teach English.

What is the main focus of the ESL/TEFL industry?

The main focus is on teaching English to non-native speakers, with an emphasis on achieving practical outcomes, such as language fluency or passing exams, rather than strictly adhering to terminology distinctions.

Why is there confusion around ESL, EFL, ELT, and other terms in the language teaching industry?

The confusion arises because different regions, countries, and educational systems use varying terms and acronyms to refer to the same concepts. This can lead to misunderstandings for newcomers to the industry.

How important is it to distinguish between these terms in practice?

In practice, these distinctions are not very important. The focus should be on delivering results and helping students effectively learn English, regardless of the specific terminology used.

What certifications are relevant for language teachers in the ESL/TEFL industry?

Relevant certifications include TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language), CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults), and TKT (Teaching Knowledge Test), which are crucial for gaining qualifications in teaching English to non-native speakers.

What is the difference between TEFL and CELTA certifications?

TEFL certifications are often less expensive and can be earned online with fewer requirements, while CELTA certifications are more intensive, typically require in-person courses, and are more expensive.

What advice does Chris give to language teaching business owners or those looking to start one?

Chris advises that newcomers should focus on mastering two key terms—ESL and TEFL—and that results, not terminology, are what truly matter in building a successful language teaching business.