TESL, TEFL, TEOSL, CELTA...what does it all mean?!!

Before going to teach English abroad it's probably a good idea to take what is commonly known as a TEFL course. (Esp. if you don't have an education background. But even so, it is still pretty helpful to have!). Basically, TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) is a term used to describe any course that helps thoes about to go abroad learn how to formulate effective lesson plans when teaching Enlgish as a second language. They are available on line and though most schools don't require a TEFL certificate, it probably is a good idea to aquire one! When looking for a TEFL course things can get kind of confusing considering there are somany different accronims used when describing TEFL courses. They are also, reffered as TEOSL, CELTA, TESL, ESL, and they are all pretty much the same thing! (or atleast they advertise the same idea). If you are considering taking a TEFL course, here's a handy site that has a guide for choosing an online course. They usually last for 4-5 weeks and usually start at about 100 bucks! Also, here's the TEFL website incase you may want furthur info and they also provide a handy job posting page full of teaching English abroad opportunities :)