10 Reasons Why You Need a TEFL Course That Includes Practicum

10 Reasons Why You Need a TEFL Course That Includes Practicum

Choosing the right TEFL course is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as an aspiring English teacher. While some courses seem cost-effective, skipping essential components like a practicum can hinder your career progress. A practicum—hands-on teaching experience in a real or simulated classroom—is more than just an added bonus. It’s a foundational aspect of quality training. Here are ten compelling reasons why practicum should be a non-negotiable part of your TEFL course.

1. Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice

TEFL courses provide a wealth of theoretical knowledge, including teaching methodologies, lesson planning strategies, and language acquisition theories. While this information is crucial, it’s not always easy to translate into practical teaching skills without real-world application. A practicum allows you to take what you’ve learned in a classroom setting and test it out with actual learners.

For example, it’s one thing to read about communicative language teaching and another to implement it effectively. During a practicum, you’ll experiment with strategies like group activities or task-based learning, discovering what works best for different student groups. This experience helps you internalize theoretical concepts and ensures you’re not just repeating what’s in the textbook but adapting it for real-world use.

A cheap TEFL course that doesn’t include teaching practices deprives you of valuable hands-on experience in a classroom setting. Teaching practice is essential for developing effective teaching skills and gaining confidence in managing a class.

Additionally, many trainees find that their confidence grows when they see their knowledge put into practice. It reinforces the value of what they’ve learned and provides clarity about how to structure lessons and engage students.

2. Building Confidence in the Classroom

Standing in front of a classroom for the first time can feel intimidating. Even with the best training, nerves often creep in when you’re faced with a group of expectant learners. A practicum gives you the chance to experience this in a supportive environment, where mistakes are part of the learning process.

During your practicum, you’ll have the opportunity to try out your teaching persona, figure out how to connect with students, and develop a rhythm for managing lessons. This repeated exposure to real or simulated classroom settings helps to desensitize you to initial fears, replacing them with a sense of readiness and control.

Without the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real teaching scenarios, it can be challenging to translate what you’ve learned into practical teaching strategies. Teaching practices bridge the gap between theory and application.

Confidence doesn’t just come from repetition but also from seeing progress. In a practicum, you might start unsure of your abilities, but by the end, you’ll feel empowered by the strides you’ve made. This self-assurance carries over into your first job and beyond, allowing you to approach new challenges with resilience and composure.

3. Gaining Insight Into Classroom Dynamics

Every classroom is unique, influenced by factors like age, language level, and cultural background. Understanding these dynamics is crucial to becoming an effective teacher, and there’s no better way to learn than by experiencing it firsthand. A practicum places you directly into these environments, giving you an insider’s perspective on how classrooms function.

For instance, you’ll notice how different groups of students interact with each other and with the teacher. Some classes may require more structure and guidance, while others thrive on open-ended discussions and creative activities. Observing these interactions during a practicum helps you adapt your approach to meet the specific needs of your students.

Moreover, practicum introduces you to common challenges teachers face, such as dealing with unmotivated students or managing varying proficiency levels. By encountering these scenarios early in your training, you’ll be better equipped to handle them in your professional career.

4. Developing Classroom Management Skills

Effective classroom management is one of the most important skills for any teacher, yet it’s notoriously difficult to master without practice. Managing a group of students requires more than just keeping order; it involves creating a productive environment where learners feel motivated and engaged.

Practicum provides the perfect setting to develop these skills. You’ll learn how to set clear expectations, establish routines, and handle disruptions calmly and effectively. These are lessons that theoretical training alone can’t fully teach. For example, you might read about using positive reinforcement, but a practicum allows you to practice it, observing how students respond in real time.

Teaching practices help you develop classroom management skills, lesson planning abilities, and student engagement techniques. Without these practical experiences, your effectiveness as a teacher may be compromised, impacting the learning outcomes of your students.

Over time, you’ll build a repertoire of management techniques that work for different situations. Whether it’s redirecting off-task behavior or encouraging participation, these tools will be invaluable in your teaching career.

5. Learning to Think on Your Feet

Teaching is rarely predictable. Students might ask unexpected questions, technology might fail, or a lesson plan might not resonate as you hoped. A practicum helps you prepare for these moments by fostering adaptability and quick thinking.

During your practicum, you’ll encounter situations that force you to deviate from your plan. Perhaps a student misunderstands a key concept, requiring you to come up with an alternative explanation on the spot. Or maybe a group activity doesn’t go as planned, and you need to pivot to a different approach. These experiences teach you how to stay calm under pressure and find creative solutions.

Importantly, a practicum helps you embrace imperfection. Not every lesson will go perfectly, and that’s okay. Learning to handle setbacks with grace and turn them into teachable moments is one of the most valuable skills a teacher can have.

6. Receiving Constructive Feedback

Feedback is an essential part of growth, and a practicum provides a structured way to receive it. During your teaching sessions, trainers and peers will observe your lessons, offering constructive critiques to help you improve.

For example, you might think your instructions are clear, but feedback from an observer might highlight areas where students were confused. These insights allow you to refine your delivery, making you a more effective communicator. Similarly, feedback might draw attention to strengths you didn’t realize you had, boosting your confidence and helping you build on those skills.

The feedback loop during a practicum is especially valuable because it occurs in real time. You can implement suggestions immediately, seeing the results firsthand. This iterative process accelerates your development as a teacher.

7. Creating a Portfolio of Experience

One of the lesser-discussed benefits of a practicum is the opportunity to document your teaching experience. Many programs encourage trainees to record their lesson plans, reflections, and even video footage of their teaching.

This portfolio becomes a tangible record of your skills, showcasing your ability to plan and execute lessons effectively. When applying for jobs, having concrete examples of your work can set you apart from other candidates who lack practical experience. Employers appreciate seeing evidence of your teaching ability, and a portfolio provides that in spades.

Additionally, reviewing your portfolio can be a source of personal motivation. It serves as a reminder of how far you’ve come, reinforcing your commitment to continuous improvement.

8. Standing Out to Employers

In the competitive world of TEFL, having practical teaching experience can be the deciding factor for employers. While a certificate is important, employers know that hands-on experience is what truly prepares teachers for the challenges of the job.

Including a practicum on your CV shows potential employers that you’ve not only studied teaching methodologies but also applied them. It demonstrates your readiness to step into a classroom and handle the responsibilities of the role with confidence.

Employers often prefer candidates with TEFL certifications that include teaching practices. A cheap TEFL course without teaching practices may limit your job prospects and opportunities for advancement in the field of English language teaching. For employers, this can be a significant advantage. Hiring someone with practicum experience means less training and support will be needed, saving time and resources. It’s a win-win for both you and your future employer.

9. Understanding the Needs of Different Learners

Every student brings unique needs and learning styles to the classroom. Some thrive with visual aids, while others prefer hands-on activities. Practicum exposes you to this diversity, helping you develop the flexibility to cater to different learning preferences.

For example, you might work with students who struggle with grammar but excel in conversational skills. Understanding these strengths and weaknesses allows you to tailor your lessons to maximize their potential. This adaptability is crucial for creating an inclusive learning environment where every student feels supported.

10. Setting Yourself Up for Long-Term Success

A TEFL course with practicum isn’t just an investment in your first job—it’s an investment in your entire teaching career. The skills, confidence, and adaptability you gain will serve you in countless roles, from teaching young learners to leading advanced conversation classes.

Practicum prepares you for the realities of teaching, equipping you with tools that theoretical training alone can’t provide. By starting your career with a strong foundation, you’ll be better positioned to grow and thrive in the ever-evolving world of English language teaching.

Choosing a cheap TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) course may seem like a cost-effective option, but it can come with significant pitfalls, especially when teaching practices are lacking. 

Proven Success: What Our Students Say

Here at TEFL Freedom, we understand the importance of thorough and practical training. As an independent provider, we offer the best advice and resources tailored to your needs, backed by our 5-star ratings on Trustpilot reflect the satisfaction and success of our students. Here are some testimonials from our graduates:

• “TEFL Freedom provided me with the tools and confidence to start my teaching career abroad. The support and resources are unmatched!” – Sarah L. “The course was thorough and engaging, and the instructors were incredibly supportive. I highly recommend TEFL Freedom!” – Michael P

•  Final Thoughts by Steven Gardner “Excellent communication. All questions answered.”
• “TEFL Freedom has given me the best opportunity to become a teacher. Debra made it possible and help me through the transition. I have received my certificate and now pursuing a degree to start teaching. TEFL Freedom is definitely recommended and I hope others that are looking should contact TEFL Freedom.” by Christopher Phan
• “I’m immensely grateful to Debra Mann for the life-changing opportunity she gave me. Winning a free $600 TESOL course during Christmas made my 2023 unforgettable. Debra’s kindness and support have been remarkable since our first interview in January. Her generosity in paying for the course has allowed me to pursue my passion for teaching English. Thank you, Debra, for making a significant difference in my life.” by Mercy Esare

Independence and Expertise

At TEFL Freedom, our independence ensures that we provide unbiased, top-tier advice tailored to your specific career goals. We are dedicated to empowering you with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the TEFL industry.

Our exceptional service and quality are reflected in our 5-star Trustpilot reviews. We take pride in delivering a comprehensive educational experience that prepares you for the real world of teaching English abroad.

Investing in a comprehensive TEFL/TESOL/DEGREE course that includes teaching practices is crucial for aspiring English language teachers. While a cheap TEFL course may save you money upfront, it can lead to long-term disadvantages in terms of professional development and teaching effectiveness. At TEFL Freedom, we are committed to providing you with the highest quality education to ensure your success.

When choosing a TEFL course, quality should always come first. A practicum ensures you’re not only certified but also capable and confident. For guidance in selecting the right course, consider working with an independent agent like TEFL Freedom. With their unbiased expertise, you can find a program that meets your needs and sets you on the path to success.