Review of ITTO
ITTO – International Teacher Training Organization – is part of teacher training and language institutes dedicated to providing ONLINE and ONSITE internationally recognized TEFL, TESOL and specialty courses with different locations worldwide such as in the USA, Czech Republic, Mexico, Peru, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Thailand and Spain!
Those who become certified through us are often hired before others in the industry because of ITTO’s impeccable reputation. Furthermore, ITTO is a proud institutional member of: The College of Teachers, ACTFL, IATEFL, AMCHAM, and IALLT.
Teach English abroad with ITTO! Upon graduation, you can register for ITTO’s TEFL Job Offer Program in China, South Korea, Thailand, France or Mexico. Our programs also include lifelong job guidance and contacts worldwide.
Types of Courses
Locations of Courses
Accreditations
- The College of Teachers (UK's Educational Institute)
- IATEFL (International Association of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language)
- ACTEFL (The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages)
- IALLT (International Association of Language Learning Technology)
- AMCHAM (American Chamber of Commerce)
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The minimum requirements are to be at least 18 years old and a High School Diploma.
62 Customer Reviews of ITTO
Review by Laura, May 8, 2010
I have been taking the TEFLcourse on-line since January of 2010 and almost done with it. I am working on my final project. Overall, I highly recommend ITTO. I have found the course to be interesting. Much information has been given in regards to teaching strategies. I have found my instructor to be most helpful. I can totally rely on her with feedback. Lesson Plan guidance is awesome! I have been given feedback from the instructor and if ever I feel incertain I email her and she quickly responds and always sends suggestions, so that I may better improve myself. All the information I have received and seen is truly insightful. I look forward to visiting ITTO in July as I will be taking my teacher practicum there.
Review by Jack, October 4, 2010
I took my TESOL course online and I think its great. The lesson plan is carefully laid out to you. The instructor is great and gives you the best feedback in planning your lesson plan. The course gives you detailed lessons about what to expect in teaching English. I am glad that I took this course and you should too.
Review by Aaron, October 14, 2010
I took my TEFL course onsite in Guadalajara, Mexico. It was simply fantastic! The professionalism of the staff, trainers, and support staff is simply amazing. I can now say that I am a fully qualified and capable EFL teacher.
Plus their job placement is wonderful! ITTO does indeed deliver on their job placement guarantee. They found me and excellent job with a school in Mexico and I am truly enjoying my time here.
The onsite TEFL curse in Guadalajara Mexico is definitely the best option for becoming a certified EFL teacher.
Review by Daniel, October 14, 2010
My experience with ITTO was wonderful. The course is intensive and has to be taken seriously, but it’s a lot of fun and you get as much out of it as you put in.
They have great trainers and the overall course fulfills any expectations. I am not taking advantage of the job placement at the moment, but I will surely consider it in a future. The TEFL course offered by ITTO is definitely a great option!
Review by Mia, October 14, 2010
I loved my ITTO experience! My teacher was excellent and the staff was humble and helpful! You will make excellent friends and even enhance your Spanish skills. If you are looking to improve your teaching ability or polish your grammar this course will help with both. Thanks ITTO!
Review by Amanda, October 14, 2010
I took my TEFL couse in Guadalajara. The 4 week intensive course was great. The trainers are really excellent. They know the in’s and out’s of the program and are wonderful sources for information. When you do your practice teaching, you are given lots of great feedback. The staff at ITTO really do go out of their way to help you when you need it. They really want to help you find a job.
It was an amazine experience. If you are thinking of taking this course I would recommend it to you.
Review by EsDavid, October 14, 2010
I took the 4-wk TEFL/TESL training course at ITTO Guadalajara from 30 Aug, 2010 through 1 Oct, 2010. I highly recommend taking the course on site to take full advantage of training with colleagues and, more importantly, observing and practice teaching at imac, ITTO’s partnering school. The TEFL/TESL course is intense and challenging, the ITTO staff is courteous, knowledgeable, accommodating and supportive, and the practice teaching with its professional evaluations is rewarding and inspiring. An added bonus – a primary attraction for me – is that ITTO’s job placement team is committed to guiding you through the interview and placement process in order to uphold ITTO’s job placement guarantee. I so appreciate the opportunity to train under and work with such professional, reliable and trustworthy people. You will, too.
Review by Bethany, October 15, 2010
I just graduated in September ’10 from ITTO in Guadalajara, Mexico. The program was fantastic. It was four weeks of intense classes, but I now feel very equipped to teach English as a second/foreign language. I also was able to do extra training packets for free the week following the course. Those packets gave me more training in specific areas as well as looking great on a resume.
My teacher was fantastic as well as all the staff at ITTO. I would recommend this school to anyone interested in teaching English as a second or foreign language. The resources that we were given through this course are so helpful, particularly the job placement guarantee.
Review by Anjela, October 20, 2010
I completed ITTO’s course in Guadalajara in Sept. 2010. I found the course to be very inclusive, and not nearly as “simple” as I thought it might be! My instructor was motivating, insightful, available, and empowering. I truly appreciate his efforts for my class.
I was offered several jobs before graduation, and accepted one in a small town in Mexico (just what I wanted!). I am teaching in the real world! I also have had employment offers from Russia, Malaysia, and Ethiopia, so I know ITTO’s diploma is accepted around the world and worth every penney and all the work I put into it!
I am very happy I chose ITTO, and recommend their program full heartedly!
Review by Tom, November 25, 2010
My experience at ITTO was a positive one. Our teacher was superb – experienced, honest and motivational and the team as a whole were very helpful and encouraging. My first job has been in a place with limited resources and few other staff. Without the skills I picked up at ITTO – especially the ten lessons teaching – I would have seriously struggled, but, as it is, I’m really enjoying it. The course, though only one month (albeit very intensive), will push you, inspire you and enable you to hit the ground running for your first teaching placement. I’m glad I did it.
Review by Joeline, November 26, 2010
Graduated in September ’10′ in Guadalajara
Choosing a TEFL program is a difficult decision to make, especially when trying to decide to take it in a different country, but I feel that ITTO gave me everything I expected and more! It was definitely intensive, but nothing that couldn’t be done. It provided me with the experience and teaching practice I need in the classroom. I had the opportunity to learn from my trainer, teachers at the language school, and other trainees as well. ITTO demonstrates a high level of professionalism where the staff are very helpful and the job guidance sessions and placement is excellent! I got the exact position I wanted, teaching at a university in Oaxaca, Mexico. I am living comfortably and applying my TEFL certification and skills in a university setting. I would highly recommend ITTO to anybody, especially if you know you would like to teach in Mexico or a Latin American country, and it has a perfect location in the heart of downtown Guadalajara!
Review by Jenna, December 4, 2010
I graduated from the ITTO TEFL on-site course in Guadalajara, October ’10.
I have to say that during my time at ITTO I found the staff to be extremely supportive on an educational and personal level. The free medical service turned out to be an absolute Godsend and I’m very grateful for it! (Especially as I had no idea about it until I arrived).
My trainer was experienced, enthusiastic, motivated and most importantly, he connected with our group so that by the end of the course, he was not only our trainer, but our friend. I felt that my trainer was integral to the course – I learned so much from him that I cannot imagine having gone through the experience without him.
The course was intense but I thoroughly enjoyed it. The opportunity to teach from Day 3 of the course was daunting to begin with, but I believe it was the best way to make everybody feel involved and motivated throughout the four weeks.
I have made some life-long friends through ITTO, and for me, that is just as important as the course itself. The TEFL Certificate course as a learning experience was informative and helpful and I really appreciate the opportunities it has given me. However, the people I met on the course were also part of that learning experience – offering support, sharing ideas and sharing stories.
I think this social aspect of the course is a big advantage that shouldn’t be overlooked- especially as your some of your classmates will be living in the same hostel as you if you choose that accommodation option. Yes the course can be demanding at times, but its easier if you can moan about it for 10 minutes over a coffee or a beer with somebody who is in the same boat!
The job placement guarantee is great – especially if you are looking for your first job in a country you have never visited before. However, I think it is important to do your research on areas you would prefer to teach in before you begin the course. It is also important to be flexible. If you arrive with very specific job specifications then it may not be possible for ITTO to service the job guarantee within a two week period. Also – ensure you have enough back up funds – your first job may be low paid, or you may not have enough hours to begin with.
ITTO offers you the opportunity to learn, work, have fun, meet people, travel and get a certificate at the end of it all! I enjoyed it and I think you will too.
Review by Andrew, December 5, 2010
I found the TEFL course in Guadalajara very helpful. I learned a lot and received wonderful guidance from Victor, my highly competent instructor. Alan then lined me up with a position teaching mainly business English, as I had asked for. I had a job waiting for me the week after I graduated.
I recommend taking the course in Mexico. You cannot substitute for practice and quality observation. It was a stimulating and interesting course, which I found much more effective than other internet courses I have taken.
Review by Wes, January 25, 2011
My experience onsite at ITTO Guadalajara was excellent. I am an older student -sixty-three – and the idea of teaching ESL has been in the back of my mind for many years. When the time was right, and I began researching different schools, ITTO immediately rose to the top. One of the first things I found was that a certificate from ITTO Guadalajara is fully accredited – and not all certificates from other schools are. Once I contacted them, they kept in close touch with me even before I committed to them. (I sent queries to some other schools who still haven’t responded.) ITTO answered every question of mine thoroughly – from living accomodations while taking the course to how much I might be making once I got a job. From the research I did, I feel that ITTO Guadalajara is one of the best schools in the world to attend. It is very intensive, thorough, professionally run and the guarantee of a job in Mexico, as far as I am concerned, is more than just talk, since I got an interview and a job two weeks into the four-week course. Also, surprisingly, the price is lower than most other schools.
I am now living and employed in Guadalajara and felt fully prepared to walk into my first class able to assist and guide my students toward the goals they wanted. The professional staff, the practice teaching hours, the thorough grammar lessons at ITTO were invaluable in that preparation. Also, the onsite experience is something that simply can’t be replicated with an online course. Our practice teaching sessions, for instance, were with real students, actually involved in the learning of English, so that we were not simply going through the motions, practicing classroom management, or practicing in front of our peers, but teaching actual learners.
I highly recommend ITTO Guadalajara as an excellent place to get an ESL/TOESL certificate.
Review by Sam, February 18, 2011
The ITTO course in Guadalajara is an intense 4-week program. There is a lot of material to cover in a short time. You are required to complete many hours of observed teachings (more than other TEFL certificate programs) and also to observe seasoned EFL teachers. In addition, a lot of written work is required. But by the end of the course, I had enough material to put together a teaching portfolio and felt well-prepared to start teaching right away.
The school has lots of materials to help you plan your lessons (including textbooks, posters, flash cards, games, and multiple computers to use) and the staff and teacher trainers were very helpful and happy to answer any questions I had.
The ITTO course is less expensive than many of the other big TEFL certificate courses but is just as (if not more) rigorous and also comes with guaranteed job placement. However, as previous reviewers have noted if you have very specific locations in mind for your job then don’t expect to get one right away. If you are more flexible, however, you will have several job offers right away.
Review by James, May 3, 2011
I started taking the online TESOL course with ITTO and ended up getting far more out of the course than I expected. I thought it would be a simple course that did not really teach me anything that I did not already know but I ended up graduating the course with so much knowledge that I ended up printing out the materials and putting them in a binder.
ITTO was very helpful throughout the TESOL course. ITTO answered all of my questions before I signed up for the course, they were helpful during the course, and they were helpful after I graduated from the course. The only thing that ITTO does not have is job placement. They have contacts for jobs but it is up to you to apply independently. ITTO is not a recruitment agency for their graduates but they do offer helpful insight on where to work.
Review by Jacquelina, May 6, 2011
I was a little anxious when I left New Zealand in February 2011 to participate in the ITTO TEFL program in Guadalajara. From my arrival everything was exactly as I was told it would be, I was even sent a picture of the taxi I should get on arrival at the airport. I opted to stay in a homestay initially and it was a safe friendly environment. I then shifted into a posada near the school and found that an equally good experience. The school program is intense as it is only 4 weeks so it is a good opportunity to learn as much as you can about Foreign language teaching. The training is professional and supportive. I was encouraged and tutored and very quickly found myself in front of a classroom of eager young Mexican students. With each lesson I was evaluated and provided with valuable feedback to help me grow as a teacher.
The trainers and office support is outstanding as they are fluent in both English and Spanish so any hiccups with getting settled are easily taken care of, including assisting with mobile phone registration and ensuring I was comfortable in my accommodation.
I was also very impressed with the Spanish class that ITTO organised for me at the end of my course at IMAC (the ITTO sister school).
I have found Mexico as safe as anywhere I have traveled in the world and the people and culture welcoming, so much so that I am still here!
In summary the entire experience at ITTO was a great experience and I now have a TEFL certificate and a profession I can practice anywhere in the world.
Review by Sara Brady, May 6, 2011
I had a very good experience with ITTOs program. After going through the program and meeting other TEFL teachers, I can see the benefits of the teaching practices and observations that we did (which not all programs require).
The service of the support staff was excellent at all times. When we had concerns about the course or the instruction, the concerns were addressed immediately and that was very much appreciated.
I think where the course lacks the most is in guidance for the lesson plan. Although we had time to plan our lessons, there were 12 students fighting for the attention of 1 or 2 people with regards to our planning. I think there should be more instruction on lesson planning throughout the course, so that we were better prepared on how to make a good lesson.
I used the job placement services but in the end found a job on my own through, within 3 days of graduation, that I am very happy with.
This is a great program for those who are serious about teaching English, and it is very helpful to have teaching experience before going in to the program.
Based on the results of the course, my current job and salary, I would recommend to others taking this TEFL course.
Review by Jon, May 6, 2011
INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE.
Prior to enrolling in the ITTO onsite TEFL course in Guadalajara I did research on as many courses in Mexico as I could find, utilizing third party resources whenever possible. I chose ITTO because:
Both the website and the telephone staff were very professional.
Virtally all third-party reviews were positive.
Fully accredited TEFL certificate in 4 weeks, at a cost equal or below standard.
GAURANTEED JOB PLACEMENT
All of these proved genuine, but the course is more than the sum of its parts. Once you enter into the fold of ITTO, and its sister school IMAC, it feels as if you have family in Mexico. They sent me to the doctor (and paid the bill) when I was sick, they showed me where to eat, they gave me my choice of job options. If you are seriously considering training to teach EFL, you owe it to yourself to call the office–ask for Liz, and ask whatever questions you have.
Review by Kirra, May 7, 2011
The onsite TEFL course in Guadalajara was the perfect preparation for me as a teacher.
I took the course in March/ April 2011, and although it was very demanding, I feel that it accurately projected the daily requirements of life as a teacher. It would not have been to my benefit to have had an ‘easy ride’, as I would have had a nasty shock with the work load of real teaching!
The practice teaching at nearby IMAC was a great experience. The feedback from my trainer was always constructive and gave me the confidence to try new things and adapt my approach. She was very supportive.
The job assistance that I received was phenomenal. I had a choice of five jobs before I had even finished my course! All of the interviews were arranged for me, and the ITTO staff helped advise me on what type of working conditions, salary and extras to expect.
I would recommend anyone who is seriously considering a TEFL career to choose ITTO.
Review by Karol Montellano, May 10, 2011
The TEFL certification course is a very intensive program, but well worth the time and money for those who are serious about teaching. My experience at ITTO was great and it opened up many doors for me. I am now teaching in Guadalajara at a private school and can honestly say that I would not be able to make it without all the practice, help and guidance given by my instructors at ITTO. I highly recommend this course for those people looking to start a career in this field.
Review by Nicole, June 15, 2011
I did my TEFL course onsite in Guadalajara in May 2011. Since I am a non-native English speaker at the beginning I had my doubts if I would be able to follow the course and meet the courses’ objectives. But thanks to my teachers and a lot of studying I was able to finish the TEFL course and get my diploma. The course was very intense and we covered a lot of material in just 4 weeks. I learned a lot, not only during classes at ITTO but also through teaching practices, observing experienced teachers and getting feedback from my observers. Staff at ITTO was always very helpful and I was happy to be able to practice my Spanish with them. I can highly recommend the TEFL course at ITTO.
Review by Rhea Sutherland, August 8, 2011
Like most potential foreign students, I was somewhat concerned when I decided to register on-line for a course outside of my own country …and I must say, I made the right decision choosing ITTO. Liz is extremely helpful, Alan handles every situation admirably and our teacher, Sarah was great. Should you have any questions, I would be happy to help if I can.
Review by Irene, August 12, 2011
I would highly recommend this course in the beautiful city of Guadalajara. We had the best experience and feedback from experienced teachers that observed us for our practice teaching toghether with an outstanding staff that was always ready to help and guide us throught the process. If you are seriously considering on teaching English I highly recomend this course to anyone considering a Tefl certificate.
And the best of all : at the end of your course several job options will be available for you.
Review by Helen, December 6, 2011
My experience with the TEFL online course has been totally fulfilling, despite my initial reservations about studying at a distance through a technological medium. I was certainly not expecting the high level of personal guidance and feedback I received throughout. The topics were logically laid out and explained, and the learning platform easy to navigate. My tutor could not have been more helpful in providing additional resources and suggestions for future practice. Overall I think this course is exceptional value for money and I would be happy to recommend it to anyone who wants to gain a qualification in TEFL – whether they are experienced teachers or newcomers.
Review by Liz Robles, December 28, 2011
I attended the ITTO course in the beginning of September 2011 and by the end of that month, I was employed. That’s not to say the course was easy, in fact, I found myself teaching within that first week… for the first time ever!
Still, stepping into that classroom, I felt confident, everything that I’d learned wheeled out of me. I soon realized I was being lead by professionals, truly devoted to their teaching, and I was unknowingly absorbing that. Our same trainers observed and provided constructive feedback, assuring that every lessons was better than the last.
The ITTO facility was without a doubt the most resourceful atmosphere; it’s equipped with computers, printers, books.. essentially all materilas for lesson planing. And, the staff is by far the friendliest most organized personnel I’ve encountered. All of this on top of the beauties of Guadalajara; I have nothing but appreciation for ITTO. It’s opened a new world for me, one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Thanks ITTO!
Review by Nicolette, January 4, 2012
I completed the ITTO TEFL course online while living in Eastern Asia. The course is very well organized and did exactly as promised! It not only gives you a solid foundation to teach English grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation, it teaches you how to connect with students, cater to their learning styles, and how to make your time in the classroom as effective as possible.
While the online course does not offer the option to practice in the classroom, it provides ITTO students with hundreds of teaching resources, lesson plans, game ideas, forums, helpful websites, and support from your tutor is always available.
If taking the course in Mexico is not an option, I highly recommend the ITTO online course. You can work at your own pace, so this can be done in addition to other job and schoolwork. The more you put in, the more you’ll get out of the program!
Review by Candice Gopaul, January 10, 2012
I currently work as a native teacher in South Korea. Every year all native teachers have to hold one compulsory open class (demonstration class) in which he/she is graded on. After the open class the grades along with a DVD of the class are submitted to the office of education and the top 5 teachers are selected to host a second open class and native teachers from neighbouring schools are invited to watch the class. I was fortunate to have been award this opportunity last fall. My class was held in early November 2011 and I won the overall prize which was a cash incentive and a certificate of excellence. Thanks to the TESOL/TEFL course my teaching style and lesson planning had improved significantly and now I hold the title of “Super Teacher” in my office of education.
Review by Tania Brown, February 3, 2012
In December took ITTO’s TEFL certification course in Guadalajara. ITTO promised job placement assistance and guaranteed job placement in Mexico. I am happy to announce that even before graduating the course I was offered a position in San Luis Potosi. I did not accept the position as it was not what I wanted but ITTO still graciously listened to my criteria for job placement and continued to help me find a good match. I sent my resume out to several places on my own but it was with ITTO’s assistance that I found a job in Ajijic, Mexico. ITTO delivered as promised. Their job placement program is just another benefit from the strong and comprehensive TEFL certification course they offer. Be prepared to work had in the month long course but you will have a good foundation to start a new and interesting career in teaching English.
Review by Theresa Almagharbeh, February 4, 2012
I recieved great news today that I passed my TEFL course. I want to thank my tutor Susan for all the help and support she gave me. The course was very helpful and easy to understand. I know all that I have learned will come very useful in my future teaching position. Susan was very kind and helpful when I was having a problem and she gave me some great feedback on my tasks that I will always keep reading and learning from.
Review by Aaron, February 8, 2012
I took the online 140hour Tefl course and it’s brilliant. I went into it thinking I would know it all and it would be easy but in fact there was a lot to learn and I got challenged too! I’m extremely glad I decided to go with this particular course. My tutor was amazing and my dealings with the administrative staff has been very pleasant. The content is great, it hit any question I had out of the park. Going into this I had no clue how I would control little kids and to my surprise there was a huge section on discipline. My only criticism being a computer programmer is their website and class portal is stuck in the 90s and it almost dissuaded me from taking it, however it gets the job done. Overall awesome experience.
Review by Sarah, February 16, 2012
I completed my course whilst living in São Paulo, Brazil and I have to say that the course made my transition into an English teacher far easier and smoother than I could have imagined.
The course offered plenty of practical advice, guides and methods of teaching and an excellent evaluation system of checking my progress through tutor graded assesments. These were a godsend, allowing me to see my strengths, weakness and how my knowledge was developing. All of the assessments linked seamlessly to the previous unit, meaning every step of the way I was enhancing my knowledge and building upon it.
The forums offered fabulous suggestions from other teachers, both new and experienced which gave me extra ideas and insights. The forums are great for creating diversity and unity: I didn’t feel I was studying alone when I had feedback from other fellow students!
Mostly importantly, the course inspired motivation and an ambition to do my best at teaching. After completing every module, I would apply all these new thoughts into my class and I had so much satisfaction seeing my classes improving and becoming more dynamic, simply from the confidence the course was giving me.
I would highly recommend this course as it will establish a foundation to a new teacher or freshen up ideas for the more experienced.
Review by Janice, March 21, 2012
English teaching job has become very competitive among English native and non-native speakers in Japan. One has to be well-equipped to become competitive. The ITTO Business English and ITTO Tesol Technology online courses that I finished and greatly enjoyed have equipped me with knowledge, skills, versatility and confidence in teaching English using technology. The lessons are very educational, practical and realistic that I can readily apply it to my classes. The assignments made me explore and use what I learned, not to mention the making of online interactive exercises. I find the Web 2.0 Tools especially interesting and helpful. The course kept me abreast with the current technology like collaborating thru blogging and social networking. To sum up, for a very reasonable price I’m very glad and satisfied with the course.
Review by Han, March 25, 2012
Choosing an online TESOL course is not easy, there are many companies out there on the market trying to sell you a quick ticket to Paradise!! After weeks and weeks of searching and reading reviews I finally settled for ITTO and what a fantastic choice that proved to be!! I have just completed my course, receiving an excellent grade for what has been an extremely rewarding course. The content was fantastic, the tutor was excellent and the experience was amazing! I’m going to feel a little lost without having my weekly tasks to complete…!! If you are looking for a TESOl course which will equip you with the skills you need to be an excellent TESOL teacher than look no further than ITTO!
Review by Christina, June 17, 2012
I just completed the ITTO TEFL Online course and I highly recommend it to others. I was able to complete the course on my own time over the past 5 months. The content is very useful and my tutor was always quick to assist during my progress. I was given helpful advice after completing each task, that I will be sure to use when teaching my own class. I am moving to Spain next month to search for a TEFL teaching job and I’m positive this certification will help me lock in the job I’m looking for. I have saved all of the lessons and the material that I gained through this course and I plan to use it to guide me when teaching. It even helped polish up my English grammar, which I have never been too good at. Overall, I highly suggest others looking for an online TEFL certification to choose this program!
Review by Cristina, July 23, 2012
ITTO’s TELF online course was well structured and easy to follow. I already had an English teaching degree in my country when I started it, so I was able to compare it with what I had already learned in college, and I can say that the materials were well chosen and not to unnecessarily complex, so that even a beginner could get the best results.
I found very useful the examples of activities and games, some of which I had never heard of before and which I will surely use if I will get a teaching job.
Also, the grammar presentation in the course (parts of speech, etc.) was well structured and useful, since English grammar is never summarized and simplified on any of the Internet websites.
My tutor corrected my exercises quite fast and I always had feedback and answers on a very friendly tone and promptly. The ITTO team also replied to my emails every time I hand an inqury, so communication was excellent.
I did indeed finish my course in 4 months, but I believe it can be finished it even faster, especially by those who already have some teaching knowledge.
As for the job placement part, unfortunately most schools demand native speakers of English, which I believe is somewhat unfair (some native speakers can have less language knowledge than non-natives who have studied it for years).
If there’s anyone out there who isn’t a native speaker and has managed to find an English teaching job with the help of this course, please share your experience with me, I would be very interested to find out about it.
To end this review, I recommend the course especially to native speakers of English who have no or little teaching experience, I’m sure it will help them learn fast about teaching and at the end they should have great chances of finding a job.
Review by Rudy, July 24, 2012
I took the online course and it is a fantastic program. The tutors give a lot of support information that is both interesting and useful. You will be able to use a lot of the resources they give you in the comments for the classes you teach abroad. Things like lists of websites with game ideas and other helpful material will be given to help you teach in the future. I’m very glad I chose this route instead of doing in-class and getting rushed into finishing.
Review by Yulia Savushkina, August 22, 2012
I took the course in order to be able to work overseas and to deep my knowledge of teaching. i found this course brilliant!the content is full and structured. The tutor i worked with is a wonderful and an experinced teacher whose comments were more than useful. i d really recommend you this course!
Review by Laura Werner, September 21, 2012
Professionalism and organization are outstading! ITTO delivers a challenging, well-rounded training program, together with the staff support and resources students need to succeed; tgeb tget fikkiw.thru with conscientiours job placement assistance as promised. What does this acutally mean? I had to work very hard in the program ( this was not a vacation in Guadalajara) Simultaneously, ITTO´s staff was consistently there for me helping me in every way. Practice teaching real students ( not volunteers) and receiving specific quidance and feedback on my teaching amde all teh difference for me: in addition to earning a higly respected credential, I also cama away with the confidence I needed to launch myslef as a teacher. I was offered a job in the location of my choice within one month of graduating! I am thoroughly happy that I decided to make this life change and that I chose ITTO to help me get started!
Laura Werner
Review by Joe Hoggard, September 21, 2012
One of the great advantages of taking the course at ITTO is that the school is affiliated with a language school across the street. So we had the advantege of learning how to desing lesson plans. grammar lessons etc.
We were able to teach English in real classes to real students. Each class that we taught was observed and graded by a teacher. So, there was immediate feedback and direction. At the end fo the four weeks there was no doubt in my mind that i was qualified to teach in a TEFL enviorment!
Joe Hoggard
Review by Joe Rivera, September 21, 2012
The course was very intensive and required a lot from me as I hadnt had to be this studious since my college days many many years ago. The trainers, staff and materials ITTO provided were excellent.
One outstanding feature of ITTO´s Program is acually teaching real students within a real classroom enviorment by way of a provate school associated with ITTO.
I didnt have any previous experience being a school teacher, however ITTO provided me with the training, knowledge and confidence I needed to begin teaching right away. As a matter of fact, I received many offers to teach whitin a couple of weeks of graduating. ITTO guarantees any graduate a teaching job anywhere within Mexico and they have lived up to that promise as I was able to obtain the position I wanted in the town that I desired wiht telative ease.
For anyone thinking of obtaining ther TEFL cerificate i highly recommend ITTO, as thier course will more than prepare you to become an ESL teacher not only in Mexico but anywhere in the world!!!
Joe Rivera
Review by Sean Nakamura, September 25, 2012
In 2011 I lost my job.. agian. So i finally decided that “now” was the time for my idea.
I contacted ITTO they were very helpful and supportive. When classes began, our teacher Rodolfo was warm and accommadating. Rodolfo is very knowledgable and motivating instructor. The curriculum was very up to date. Rodolfo gave us students the benefits of the years of experience his classes where lively and interesting.
His ability to critique and give useful feedback was exemplary. The first few days of class were a little daunting. There was a lot of information to process, lesson planning grammar phonetics, essays and teaching practice.
During this whole time ITTO was very supportiveand willing to assist me, Finally when I completed the course ITTO was very helpful in finding me a job.
I am still working for the first school ITTO placed me and I am enjoying living and teaching in Guadalajara.
I highly recommend ITTO
Review by Josh, October 11, 2012
I actually came to the city before deciding on a school and visited various institutions. ITTO was by far the most modern, professional and all inclusive. After making the decision to attend ITTO their student liaison kept in constant contact with me, answering questions mailing useful documents and overall making sure i was well informed every step of the way.
The staff are warm and understanding while at the same time maintaining a level of professional stance and attitude. The program manager boast a fountain of knowledge and was able to support all students from all over the world, in navigating the Mexican system as well as the city streets.
The professors have years of international teaching experience and all held post graduate degrees and yes all of the staff speak English Fluently; most have spent much time living in the states.
Warning; This is not a degree mill!! You will work hard for the 4 week duration. However, upon completion you will surely feel a great sense of accomplishment and hold the tools to teach anywhere in the world, not just Mexico or Latin America. If you decide to relocate, the program manager has connections all over the world and will seamlessly find you a position in the geographical area you desire.
ITTO Guadalajara is a Top Notch institution! Do not let the impostors steer you astray… Thank you to all the ITTO Team.
Review by Veronica Moeller, October 22, 2012
As a certified TESOL instructor, I was looking for a course that provided good outlines and structures on teaching Business English. I decided to try the ITTO online Business English 25 hour self guided course and I am glad that I did.
First, the staff was very helpful in getting me registered, and second the course provided exactly the type of course syllabus that I was looking for. The course outline provided every element of BE along with materials and guidelines, but most importantly, how to implement the training.
I would recommend this course if you already teach and want to specialize in Business English Teaching
Review by Wendy Diedrich, October 23, 2012
The course is a really fast and comprehensive introuduction to TELF. If you’re wanting to get our there working ASAP, this is a great way to go!
I Highly recommend ITTO.
Review by Sarah Cheetham, October 23, 2012
If you are looking for a quality program that will really help prepare you for teaching TEFL, choose ITTO.
Not only do I feel prepared for teaching English in Mexico, but with the Job placement program, I was able to find a job in 3 weeks into the course and I will be starting right away
Review by Kamil Gomularz, November 16, 2012
The great thing about the course was the caring support and the encouraging and quick feedback from my tutor. Sure, the course was intensive and required several hours of dedication a week. But if you enjoyed something as much as I had with this course, then it doesn’t become a chore. There was a lot of extra reading involved as my tutor had provided many websites and many articles, but they then became valuable resources. Earlier in the course, my tutor recognised my weaknesses and had in her feedbacks, given me some sound advice and ideas on how to improve. Along the journey, I grew in confidence when I had been exposed to so many ideas, strategies, methodologies and understood the expectations of being an effective teacher of English. I have finished the course with so much excitement and fulfilment.
I, now, also appreciate the importance of a well structured lesson plan which caters for different types of learners, incorporates a lead-in, elicitation from students, introduction of new vocabulary, presentation, controlled and free practices, and homework. But, most of all, I have recognised that the most effective lessons are student-centred and can be stimulating by introducing a variety of activities, such as games, music, debates and role plays.
Review by fatima, December 6, 2012
I started my ITTO program on December 16 2011 and since then my teaching skills have improved. The online program helped me understand students more and manage my teaching abilities more efficiently and effectively. After completing the course I can proudly say that I am qualified to successfully teach an English class. Adding that I am a ITTO program student onto my curriculum vitae was a plus when I last conducted a teaching interview and I got the job.
Review by Axel Ramirez, December 18, 2012
Hi everybody,
I recently finished the TEFL Online Course which allowed me to manage my time and juggle with other life areas. The course has been a wonderful experience because of the thourough feedback I have received from the tutor. The course structure which is very clear and easy to understand is a real highway to knowledge of concepts and insights about English teaching. The downside to this online course is exactly that ‘it is online’; hence the practicality depends on my application of the concepts at the workplace, or whenever I teach a language (the metodology can work with other languages as well). Another thing I really liked is the forums because I could discuss a topic and share opinions with so many language teachers around the world! Once again, a great experience this course has been.
Review by Luis, January 20, 2013
I find myself here after completing my TEFL class and, actually, I first found about ITTO, the course I ended up choosing, on http://TEFLCourseReview.com/.
I was looking for an online TEFL course and, like I’m sure several other people out there, I began searching mainly on-the-basis of my pocketbook.
However, when I found the poor reviews of the ‘inexpensive’ course I was thinking about, I decided I needed to reconsider.
I am so glad I did! Actually, the course at ITTO was not that much more costly than the other one I was considering, but it looked like one of the top-reviewed courses out there.
I would highly recommend the online TEFL course offered by ITTO. Honestly, the only negative thing I can say about the course, is that I am sorry I did not take a ‘higher-level’ of the course. 120 hours went by way too fast!! Seriously, I learned so much from this class, and gained so much.
Review by Maria, January 31, 2013
I have just completed the online TEFL course and I was very happy with it. I found the content quite interesting and I despite already having teaching experience, I definitely learned from it, as it made me think of the broader picture for teaching lessons and to think about how I would cater to learners in different environments than I was used to.
The tutor was a great support and corrected my work quickly and ably, and in this way I was able to apply her advice as I progressed through the course.
I would recommend this course, especially as they sometimes offer deals which makes it very economical.
Review by Elisabeth, February 13, 2013
I was at ITTO during the January 2013 course and had an excellent experience. The course is very intensive, challenging and will truly prepare you to teach all levels of English students. I strongly encourage all who want to be English teachers to take part in the course in Guadalajara. The staff is excellent. They are helpful, knowledgeable and deliver on all of their promises. The teaching practices are in a real English institute, with real students and thoroughly prepare you to teach. If you have little or no experience teaching English the teaching practices are priceless. The feedback is very helpful and by the time the course ends you will be exhausted but feel completely ready to teach English to all sorts of students using different platforms and methods. This course is superior to CELTA and to any online TEFL certification because of the teaching practices, feedback and instructors who are experts in their field. I strongly recommend it to anyone who is interested in becoming an excellent English teacher. For those interested in job placement I can tell you that my job placement was excellent. I was placed within three weeks of starting the course.
Review by Justina Sparling, February 18, 2013
I did ITTO’s TEFL certificate course in Guadalajara, Mexico in June 2012 and the experience was great. I had a wonderful instructor who gave a lot of feedback about practice teaching and a lot of helpful hints. I was placed in a job immediately after completing the course. I love my job and it is a perfect fit for me. The staff at ITTO were helpful before and during the course and continue to be helpful now. I highly recommend this course!
Review by Chris R., February 19, 2013
If you want to teach English abroad then this is the course and location to take your TEFL certification. No teaching experience? No problem! You will teach for an hour a day Monday through Friday as well as a few Saturdays to a class of REAL students who want to learn English.
And that’s not all! The staff at ITTO are amazing. Alan and Daniel are very helpful with anything and everything you might need. I got really sick one day during the course because of food poisoning, and they sent me to the emergency room right away. I was there within 30 minutes.
I also recommend the all inclusive housing option to stay in the hostel. Make sure to ask for the hostel Casa Vilasanta. You will be about 8 blocks from the school and can walk there in 15 minutes. Sometimes they are full depending on the time of year, but the staff there is absolutely amazing. You will feel like part of the family because it is actually run by a family!
I recommend bringing:
Laptop (WiFi is abundant, but computers are not)
Flash Drive (Good for backing up files, and transferring them to ITTO’s computers for printing lesson plans)
Professional Clothes (You must dress up when you teach, and it can be hard to find larger sizes in Mexico)
Review by Khadija, February 26, 2013
I started my ITTO online course back in December 2012, and I just finished it. I like the idea that you’re not rushed and you have up to one year to finish it.
The course structure is excellent and easy to follow. The paragraphs are short to read and clear to comprehend.
I already had an English teaching degree but didn’t have the knowledge and confidence I needed to begin teaching English, however ITTO provided me with ample training that it will guide me through my career once I anchor a job.
The tutor was excellent, she gave me a lot of support, guidance and rich feedback that were useful during the course.
Thank you
Review by Alejandro Hernandez, April 17, 2013
I always have been fascinated by languages and the importance that they communicate and how they open doors all over the world. After completing this intensive teacher training course, I feel my thoughts and my personality have been transformed in a positive sense. I have learned so many things that involve a teacher’s live, including the rights and responsibilities to manage a classroom. From my own experience I have now experienced the two sides of the classroom, as ESL student in the United States, and now an EFL teacher.
This teacher training course, in my opinion, has covered the whole aspects related to preparing me to have a real life teaching experience, and the city of guadalajara is amazing to live this EFL course.
Thank You
Review by William Poyer, April 18, 2013
The ITTO programme is a fantastic course for those looking to gain the relevant qualifications in a short time.
The course was intensive and provided high quality teaching, alongside essential practice in the classroom.
The teaching and administrative staff are incredibly helpful and skilled. All materials were sufficient, and appropriate to the course at hand.
The guaranteed job placement on completion of the course is wonderful incentive, as well as the beautiful city of Mexico.
I would recommend this course highly to anyone looking to obtain such a teaching qualification.
Many thanks to the ITTO staff.
Review by D. Robert Tuff, April 19, 2013
When I started thinking in earnest about teaching overseas, I immediately selected ITTO for my TEFL training. For me, the only question was: “San Jose or Guadalajara?” I settled on Guadalajara because they seemed to offer so much more with a reduced rate, and I was not disappointed. It took me about five days to completely fall in love with the city. There is a feeling of “up tempo” tranquility here that is revitalizing.
While I was preparing for my TEFL adventure back in Minnesota, the office people here were so helpful and friendly. They made the whole process simple and exciting!
The course material was very intense. I had determined beforehand that this would be the case, but it was almost too much and I felt like quitting at times. The instructors were always so helpful and I didn’t quit. In fact, I finished on a strong note, and I am so grateful because I am employed part time in this beautiful city I now call “home”.
Review by Michele Paul, April 26, 2013
I took the TEFL online course and was meant to do it during my knee surgery rehab. I knew it was going to be difficult, because it was like going back to school for me, I had to focus. As expected it was very intense, so much information and material. I too, at some point, felt like maybe this was too hard for me and quitting was an option. But no, I didn’t quit, on the contrary I attacked it and honestly it was just impossible for me to fail with my amazing tutor. She is an inspiration to me and I really wanted to succeed. At any given time, when I didn’t understand the assignment, or wasn’t 100% sure, she was just one email away! When I would submit my assignment, even if I had done a good job, it’s amazing how much feedback I would get, and this is what is most helpful, because there are so many great teaching methods, and activities to chose from, I loved that I could get inspired by that feedback, it was extremely accurate and useful. I kept all the notes, all the websites, and articles suggestions and I’m sure to use when I start teaching!
I love how serious this course is. If you want to do it and become an English teacher, it has to be serious, it is not easy and that’s why I love it. The grammar was so far away for me, and yet it was easy to study hard with all the help and tools you get with this course.
Now I can’t wait to get on an adventure and go on to teach the English language! I couldn’t rate the job placement yet because I haven’t used it yet.
Now I am so excited to be able to consider teaching overseas!
Review by Ilina TRUFIN, April 28, 2013
If you want to become an EFL/ESL teacher I recommend you to choose ITTO in Guadalajara. They offer more than others: the teaching practice and observing classes in one of the best schools, IMAC; And let’s not forget about salsa, guitar and Spanish lessons that are included too! I learned so much during this course and the information was so useful after I started working as an ESL Teacher. You don’t realize how much you have learned till you get to practice it. The course was very intensive, but we had all the materials we needed and the best teachers. They helped us with any problems at any time.
It’s so good when you come late from school and you find your meal nice and warm on the table!
The administrative staff is always there to help you, no matter what you will ask them, they will find a solution to your problem or they will have an answer to your request. They are just amazing!
I also recommend choosing the home-stay program. You get to know the Mexican culture, the traditional food, practice your Spanish language and, the most important thing, you don’t have to worry about grocery shopping or cooking!
Review by Gringo Jusa, May 1, 2013
At first, I was hesitant in taking the TEFL online course as I have not experienced this before. I have thought it would be difficult since it will be done online. However, that has changed when I met my tutor who helped me a lot in accomplishing my tasks.
The online course covers many informative and meaningful topics that will help teachers in their teaching careers. The activities and feedback you will get from your tutor will help your grow and understand how you run your lesson in the classroom.
Nevertheless, it was an amazing experience to be part of this particular program and I will be forever grateful to this. I have learned a lot on which I can say I have grown as a professional teacher, capable of sharing and influencing the minds of students who are interested to learn in my class.
Note: I have not rated Practice Teaching and Job placement for I have not done any of the two. Practice Teaching are only for those who had taken an in-house TEFL course.
Review by Blaise Rastello, May 20, 2013
I have taken many online courses and in fact took all my classes for my Arizona teaching credential online with a local community college. My ITTO tutor Susan Gammage was bar none the best online instructor/tutor I have ever had. Her feedback was always relevant, precise and comprehensive. Susan’s style of feedback was always positive and encouraging. At times I felt overwhelmed with all the resources she would provide me in her feedback, but now I have a tremendous reference library to draw on.
ITTO as a whole was a pleasure to work with from the very start. Anytime I needed anything they were prompt and always helpful. Thank you for such a positive experience.
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