TEFL Unlocked

The TEFL Academy
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TEFL Unlocked

Dive into the world of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) with TEFL Unlocked, the ultimate podcast for aspiring and seasoned educators. Whether you're just starting your journey or looking to enhance your teaching skills, this podcast offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.

  1. 4D AGO

    Talk less, teach more: Mastering teacher talk time

    In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead discuss the critical importance of keeping teacher talk time (TTT) concise in the classroom. They explore the negative impacts of excessive TTT on student engagement and learning, emphasizing the need for teachers to provide ample opportunities for students to practice speaking. The conversation includes practical strategies for reducing TTT, common mistakes teachers make, and the significance of planning and classroom layout in fostering a more student-centered learning environment.

    16 min

  2. MAY 7

    Fluency first: How teaching functions boosts speaking skills

    In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, Luan and Mairead delve into the importance of teaching functions in language learning. They discuss how functions are prefabricated chunks of language that enhance fluency and flexibility in communication. The conversation covers effective teaching strategies, including the PPP approach (presentation, practice, production), and emphasizes the significance of understanding meaning, form, and phonology. The hosts also highlight the value of creative practice through role plays, which allow students to apply their learning in real-life contexts. The episode concludes with encouragement for teachers to embrace teaching functions to improve their students' speaking abilities.

    20 min

  3. APR 30

    Read the room: Teaching mistakes you don’t want to repeat

    In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, Luan shares a personal experience of one of her worst English lessons, focusing on the challenges faced while teaching an A2-level adult class about ecosystems. She reflects on the importance of adapting lessons to suit the needs and interests of adult learners, emphasizing key lessons learned from the experience, including the need to read the room, change context, and keep tasks age-appropriate. Luan concludes by reassuring teachers that it's okay to have bad lessons, as they provide valuable learning opportunities.

    10 min

  4. APR 23

    Lessons beyond the classroom: Teaching, travel & living without regrets

    In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead share valuable life lessons learned from their teaching experiences. They discuss the importance of understanding language, building rapport with students, and developing organizational skills. The conversation also touches on stepping out of comfort zones, gaining cultural insights, and the significance of empathy and patience in teaching. They emphasize the value of making mistakes, the joy of teaching, and living without regrets, encouraging listeners to embrace their teaching journey.

    20 min

  5. APR 15

    Navigating interaction in online vs. face-to-face teaching

    In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead discuss the evolution of online teaching and its growing prominence compared to traditional face-to-face teaching. They explore the key differences between the two methods, including interaction styles, technology requirements, classroom environments, feedback mechanisms, and the flexibility that online teaching offers. The conversation highlights both the advantages and challenges of each teaching format, providing insights for educators navigating the modern teaching landscape.

    24 min

  6. APR 9

    Teaching as a journey: How continuous learning transformed Nancy’s approach to ESL

    In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead interview Nancy, an experienced online English teacher from Johannesburg, South Africa. Nancy shares her journey from accounting to teaching, detailing her daily routine, payment structures, and her challenges in the online teaching landscape. She emphasizes the importance of student engagement strategies and offers valuable advice for new ESL teachers. She also highlights the significance of continuous learning and treating teaching as a business.

    22 min

  7. APR 2

    Why do adults learn English? The answer will change your teaching!

    In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead delve into the complexities of adult learners' motivations for attending English classes. They discuss the differences between intrinsic and extrinsic motivations, highlighting how personal goals and external pressures shape students' experiences. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding these motivations to create a supportive and effective learning environment. The hosts also share practical strategies for teachers to enhance student motivation and engagement in the classroom.

    22 min

  8. MAR 26

    Insights from a TEFL recruitment expert

    In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead welcome Henri, an international recruitment consultant at The TEFL Academy, to discuss the current landscape of TEFL teaching jobs. They explore the most in-demand countries for TEFL teachers, the importance of having an accredited TEFL certificate, and the challenges faced by applicants in the job search process. The conversation also covers salary variations across regions, the impact of online teaching platforms, and the recruitment process for teachers. Henri emphasizes the need for flexibility and the benefits of using recruitment agencies to secure teaching positions abroad.

    31 min
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About

Dive into the world of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) with TEFL Unlocked, the ultimate podcast for aspiring and seasoned educators. Whether you're just starting your journey or looking to enhance your teaching skills, this podcast offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.

Information

  • Creator
    The TEFL Academy
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    30
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © The TEFL Academy
  • Show Website
    TEFL Unlocked

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