Basic Tefl And Teaching Questions

[niteswim]

Hi, the info in the forum is fantastic. I just have a few basic questions.

1. Do schools or potential employers check on the 'quality' of your TEFL ? eg. one that has plenty of class hours versus a 20 hour weekend course ? Will I be disadvantaged in my job search if I have done one of these quick courses ?

2. How much choice does one get in terms of finding a teaching location ? I really want to work in Bangkok (central) and not some out in the sticks school.

3. What are typical working hours in a school ? 9am to 3pm ? Also, do school expect a lot of out of hours work (eg, for lesson preparation, marking, etc) ?

4. I am Asian and grew up and was educated in Australia. Is there a preference for 'white' teachers ?

Thanks

Edited May 18, 2009 by niteswim

[PeaceBlondie]

Schools generally require you to be on campus 8AAM - 4 pm

A few schools discriminate against Asians...because Thais and Filipinos work cheaper.

Most jobs are anywhere in greater BKK

Yes, some schools think short or online courses aere nit worth much.

[TerryLH]

1. My experience is with schools ouside of Bangkok. I don't think any of them would know the difference between different TEFL certs. Most of the schools didn't require a TEFL cert.

2. Decide the areas you want to work, and only look for positions there.

3. As PB said, 8-4 is fairly normal. Most schools will require you to make up tests, mark them, do lesson plans and other assorted paperwork. You would do that between 8-4, or whatever time you are at work.