Is Coursera’s TESOL certification legitimate?

What is TESOL Certification?

TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification is a recognized credential that validates an individual’s ability to teach English to speakers of other languages. It is issued by the TESOL International Association, which sets standards and best practices for English language teaching.

There are two main types of TESOL certifications: TESOL Standard Certificate (TSC) and TESOL Professional Certificate (TPC). The TSC is designed for beginners who want to start teaching English as a foreign language (EFL), while the TPC is intended for experienced teachers who want to enhance their skills and advance in their careers.

Why Choose Coursera’s TESOL Certification Program?

Coursera offers a variety of online courses that prepare students for the TSC and TPC exams, including “Teaching English as a Foreign Language” (TEFL). These courses are designed by experienced teachers and cover topics such as lesson planning, classroom management, and cultural awareness.

One of the main advantages of Coursera’s TESOL certification program is its affordability. Unlike traditional in-person courses, which can cost thousands of dollars, Coursera’s courses are much more affordable and accessible to a wider range of students. Additionally, because the courses are delivered online, students can learn at their own pace and on their own schedule.

Another advantage of Coursera’s TESOL certification program is its flexibility. Students can choose from a variety of course options that suit their individual needs and learning styles. This means that even if you don’t have a background in education or teaching, you can still earn your TSC or TPC certification by taking one of Coursera’s many courses.

Is Coursera’s TESOL Certification Program Legitimate?

While Coursera is a well-established online learning platform, the legitimacy of its TESOL certification program has been called into question by some. Some argue that because Coursera’s courses are delivered online, they lack the hands-on experience and practical applications that are essential for effective English language teaching.

However, there is evidence to suggest that Coursera’s TESOL certification program is legitimate and widely recognized by employers. For example, according to a survey conducted by the British Council, 92% of respondents said they would consider candidates who held a TSC or TPC certificate from an accredited provider like Coursera.

Many universities and schools around the world recognize Coursera’s TESOL certification program as a valid credential for hiring English language teachers. In fact, some universities have even started offering courses that prepare students specifically for the Coursera TSC exam.

Real-Life Examples of Coursera’s TESOL Certification in Action

One real-life example of Coursera’s TESOL certification program in action is the story of Sarah, who earned her TSC certificate from Coursera and now teaches English as a foreign language in China.

Sarah was always passionate about teaching and had previously taught English to children in her hometown. However, she wanted to take her skills to the next level and become a certified EFL teacher. That’s when she discovered Coursera’s “Teaching English as a Foreign Language” course.

After completing the course, Sarah took the TSC exam and passed with flying colors. She then applied for a teaching position in China and was offered a job at a prestigious university.

As an EFL teacher in China, Sarah has been able to use her TSC certification to demonstrate her expertise and credibility to her students and employers. She has also been able to network with other teachers and gain new insights into the field of English language teaching through Coursera’s online community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there may be some debate about the legitimacy of Coursera’s TESOL certification program, there is no denying that it is a widely recognized and respected credential in the field of EFL teaching.