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TEFL online vs onsiteIn this research article, we are going to look into the differences between online tefl course and onsite tefl course, by comparing different areas of pros and cons of online Vs onsite tefl course. Onsite tefl course has been more traditional and was the only form of taking tefl course previously, while online tefl course was less common and popular before. However, nowadays, with the advancement and accessibility of modern technology like computer and Internet broadband, and the busy city lifestyle closely associated with the development of globalization. Definition Online tefl course Online tefl course refers to taking the tefl course through online medium, by receiving the course study materials and handing in assignments through emails. Onsite tefl courses Onsite tefl course refers to a course, which was held on a given site of classroom with a group of students, taking the same tefl course with a qualified teacher. Apart from lectures and classroom activities and practice, candidates will have a chance of observing others' in teaching and to practise teaching. Nature of learning Contents The content of learning for both online and onsite tefl courses are exactly the same. Format of course and mode of delivery: Online tefl course comes with tutor or no tutor support. When all the learning modules are completed with the worksheets satisfied by the tutor or exam passed at the end, candidates will obtain a certificate afterward. For onsite course, if candidates participated the whole of the learning period by attending 4 weeks of compulsory classes from 9 am to 5 pm. Candidates will obtain the certificate. Time: online course candidates can finish the tefl course at their own pace in 6 months. While onsite candidates have to attend daily lessons for 4 weeks. Mode and method of learning Online tefl course is conducted through the TEFL institution sending and receiving study material in chapters through email with or without tutor support. Candidates undertake independent study of the material and then show his/ her understanding on the topic by responding to the questions set for the topic in the worksheet with tutor support or through a one- time 24-hour open- book exam sent through emails. Onsite tefl course is conducted through traditional means of attending classroom lessons. Types of learning and skills involved In online course, the types of learning involved are independent learning and self- study. students have to read, process, analyze and understand the materials given and express their own opinion regarding the topic they learnt up the satisfaction of the tutor who will assess student's understanding on the topic. The worksheets are aimed to show students' understanding of the topic. Apart from basic study skills like reading comprehension like skimming and scanning, etc. The essential skills involved in undertaking the online course would be time- management, discipline and analyzing the information and reflection on self?s own experience in learning and teaching. Secondly, student must be able to write to express one's opinion and understanding on the topic through answering the open question involved in their own words. In onsite course, since it is a group- learning environment. students learn through interaction, group discussion and lecture and demonstration. It is a more varied and lively approach to the learning outcomes. Comparison of the Pros and cons of online Vs onsite TEFL learning: Online TEFL learning Pros: 1.The use of technology saves time and energy and money. Simplify the learning process. 2.Candidates can learn at ones' own pace and time. Cons: 1). Online learning lacks the resources group learning offers, by discussion, practice and observation and demonstration. 2). Online learning is more boring compared to group learning environment. 3). Online learning requires a high degree of self- discipline and time and life management and determination. Onsite TEFL learning Pros: 1). More learning resources and approaches in group- learning than online learning. 2). Learn about teaching through ongoing feedback from instructors, teaching observation and practice. Cons: 1). More commitments for a month in terms of environment, time and energy. 2). Less personal learning. To summarize, online and onsite tefl courses both have their pros and cons, which may suit different people. Online TEFL is a contribution to candidates who cannot attend onsite tefl courses.
