Which TEFL course in Bogota?

I know this gets some discussion from time to time, but I'm specifically interested in comparing the merits of the ILAC, (International Language Academy of Canada), course provided by ISSO, with the CELTA, (Cambridge University). The latter is, as far as I am aware, offered exclusively by the British Council.

Of course, I know I can "teach" here in Bogota without this qualification, but I am wondering if the CELTA is really taken that much more seriously here than the former?

Secondly, if no distinction is made in Colombia, is one made elsewhere? Would the CELTA be looked on more favourably in India or China?, for example. I'm not planning on moving just yet, but if I'm going to do a course, it might as well be one that offers as much koudos and flexibility as possible.

The main consideration at the moment is the cost:

ILAC: COP 1,580,000

CELTA: COP 3,604,000

That's quite a difference, considering course content looks broadly similar.

So, although it would be really interesting to hear opinions specifically related to the Bogota courses, I would also be interested to hear from anyone, (not ISSO staff), anywhere, with a TEFL qualification who can comment on CELTA versus the rest.

Thankyou!

By Alma del Norte on Apr 16, 2008, 10:50 in Friendly Talkzone.

yummyj says on Apr 16, 2008, 22:29:

CELTA is becoming the standard for TEFL certificates. Forget the money it costs now, it will pay for itself in the future.

bill230 says on Apr 17, 2008, 07:38:

I looked into this last year. At the time, the ISSO web site claimed that upon successful completion you would receive the International Language Academy of Canada certificate in TEFL/TESOL. I wrote to ILAC to confirm this, but they refused to respond to any questions about ISSO.

lpdiver says on Apr 18, 2008, 03:28:

My past research into this indicated that you being a Native speaker of the language is going to be your trump card. Enhance that by gaining some experience even if you have to donate your time once a night at a church giving ESL classes.

You will probably enjoy your experiences greatly.

t

"cook some rice!"