Anybody heard anything about ISSO teacher training (TEFL) ?

I'm thinking about taking on TEFL training and came across this ISSO (International Student Services Org.). I searched but couldn't find any recommendations or first-hand accounts. All I found on this forum were other questions like mine and invites from their school administrators.

So, anybody heard anything about this school? I'm kind of leery because of the dicey reputation TEFL schools have world-wide.

Also, they offer training four different places. I'm interested in Cali or Barranquilla. Any thoughts which place would be best for a single, survival -Spanish-only chap in terms of most laid-back, best for budget, and overall fun? I know--stupid relative question. Still....

Thanks for taking the time to help.

By alfredeneuman on Jun 27, 2008, 09:31 in Friendly Talkzone.

arnold_kate says on Jun 27, 2008, 12:34:

I haven´t been to Cali yet, but I go to Barranquilla often. It is a fairly big place with lots to do. I have heard the night life is good there but haven´t yet experienced it myself. I would definetly recomend it. Hope this helps! Katie

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Alma del Norte says on Jun 27, 2008, 15:56:

I think from previous discussions here, it's a case of "you get what you pay for". It's a question of how seriously you are going to wield your qualification. This certification course is half the price of others and seems fairly well-established. You've read the posts, should be enough there to make your mind up.

a_k How can you definitely recommend something that you have not experienced, especially when you haven't any experience of the alternatives?

La vida es una rutina

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alfredeneuman says on Jun 27, 2008, 16:26:

Thanks, Katie, that was helpful. Barranquilla does sound like it has a lot going for it. Jeez, Alma, get a grip. Spread your toxic chit somewhere else.

When she said, "Lips that touch whiskey will never touch mine," I reached for my bottle and took a long, slow pull on it.

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Alma del Norte says on Jun 27, 2008, 20:18:

Toxic? jaja! Well if you are that thin-skinned Alfie, you're probably in the wrong place. Only trying to help - posed the same question a couple of times round here and I think that is as good as you're going to get.

Enjoy BAQ, as it comes so highly recommended. I'm sure Elmo can give you a few pointers - suerte, especially with the "survival-Spanish-only" ;)

La vida es una rutina

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alfredeneuman says on Jun 27, 2008, 23:29:

Sorry 'bout that, Alma.My bad. I appreciate your calling back and the thumbs up about BAQ. Must be a cultural differentiation thing on my part. Your comment about ISSO being well established is helpful, and I think you're right about this being about all I'm gonna get on the school. If I do attend there, I'll give a thorough report back to PBH. Later, dude, & cheers.

When she said, "Lips that touch whiskey will never touch mine," I reached for my bottle and took a long, slow pull on it.

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Philly says on Jun 28, 2008, 07:12:

I do not have any certifications, however I have two graduate degress, and they are not in English. One is in teaching history and the other one is in Human Resources. I am doing extremely well without any of those certifications. I have done a little bit of research and the mayority of teaching jobs around the world only require that you are from the United States or a few other English speaking countries, and have a college degree. My personal opinon is these certifications are a way for people to make money. Just thought I would comment.
Thanks

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adrienne79 says on Jun 28, 2008, 08:45:

I strongly disagree with Philly. If you are taking it for a piece if paper in the end, maybe he is right, and yes you can get a job easy enough without it. But if you are taking it to actually learn more about teaching and about helping your students it can be a great program. I am about one week away from finishing a year long course that I have been taking online. I opted for the online since I didn't have time or money for a traditional class. Most English speakers argue that the online course is not the way to go since you don't get the teaching experience. It all worked out for me though because I started as a teacher back in October here in Bucaramanga and have been able to apply what I am learning to a real classroom setting. I think it also helps me get along with the Colombian teachers better. They don't want some foriegn prick walking in and taking their jobs when thay have studied languages for awhile to land a teaching position. I have seen the resentment it causes to people with no training or background in teaching. I think my co-workers respect me more because they know I am trying to learn just like they had to. Good luck and if you want more info on an online program, let me know.

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Philly says on Jun 28, 2008, 09:01:

I guess I should have stated I have teaching experience but not in English. Yes, I agree with you a lot Adrienne79, but my life experiences has helped me more in the classroom more then what I was taught in college. Yes, it is very important to know how to teach, must people do not. In Colombia, I have come across people who have graduated from college with a degree in languages and can not speak the language. Now, what does that tell you? This subject I believe all depends on the individual and their educational background. No book, education or anything can help you in the classroom if teaching is not in you.

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