Boomers Abroad

Highlights

Costa Rica has long been renowned for stunning natural beauty, enlightened environmental policies, democratic government, dense and diverse wildlife, and warm, welcoming people.

Columbus landed in Costa Rica in 1502, but it wasn't until 1838 that this nation of mountains and beaches became an independent republic. Having grown relatively wealthy from coffee and banana exports, Costa Rica is now a haven for tourists and travelers, as well as a proud democracy with a growing industrial sector (Intel accounts for about 20% of the country's exports).

Costa Rica's tropical climate is characterized by a rainy season (May into November) and a dry season (mid-November through April). Temperatures vary based on altitude, from year-round beach weather on the coasts to the consistently temperate mountain valleys.

The TESOL Certification Program prepares graduates to teach English effectively in any classroom in the world. Designed for those with or without previous teaching experience, this intensive training program includes instruction from experienced trainers, classroom observation of professional teachers, and teaching practice with language learners. Participants learn how to lead classes using the communicative approach, teaching students to use real-world language for real-world situations. Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to teach adult ESL/EFL classes of different levels, feel comfortable choosing the right material to teach a given class, and complement their classes with audio-visual aids.

The four-week training course includes 140 hours of classroom time, and a minimum of 6 hours of observed Teaching Practice with local EFL students.

The Training Center in Costa Rica is in San Pedro, which is a suburb outside of San Jose. The center is in an area that features a nice blend of residential and commercial venues, with restaurants, shops and the University of Costa Rica nearby. The school has eight teaching rooms, a computer area featuring six computers and WiFi, and a nice snack bar serving complimentary coffee and tea daily. The facilities and computers are open seven days a week, including holidays.

During the training program you will receive job search assistance, and most people who are serious about finding a paid teaching position in Costa Rica are able to do so.

If you are interested in brushing up on your Spanish and learning more about your new location, you have the option of two complimentary weeks of intensive group Spanish classes plus cultural excursions. These take place in the two weeks prior to your 4-week TESOL Certification Program start date. There is no cost other than housing and USD 50 for a book that is required.

Qualifications

Successful LanguageCorps Teachers are true global citizens. They are comfortable with, and excited about, genuine intercultural exchange. They embrace opportunities to share their own cultural identity with others, and to immerse themselves in new and different worlds. While neither previous teaching experience nor foreign language skills are required, all LanguageCorps Teachers must possess excellent native-level English, some college experience, a valid passport; and must complete an application, interview, and background check. Bachelors' degrees are preferred, but not required. In addition, you will receive lifetime job search assistance if you decide to teach again in Costa Rica, or in other locations in the future.

Minimum Education

Bachelors

Languages

• English

Languages Used as a Medium of Teaching

• English

Cost in US$:

1,995

Cost Includes:

Cost Include Description:

Tuition and books

Credit Available

no

Salary/Pay

This Program is open to

American, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi Participant.

Participants Travel to Costa Rica

Independently

Application Process Involves

• Phone/Video Interview
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

Post Services Include

• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Alumni Network

LanguageCorps's Mission Statement

LanguageCorps' mission is to offer participants a rewarding experience living in, working in, and learning about a new culture; affording them a unique opportunity to learn and apply new skills and challenging them to develop a wider perspective about the diversity of cultures and populations around the world.

Year Founded

2002