English is taught in many countries where it is not used as the main language in daily life. In these places, students learn English mainly in classrooms at schools, language centers, or private courses.

Teachers who guide students in this learning environment are known as EFL teachers. Their role is not only to teach vocabulary and grammar but also to create opportunities for students to practice English in meaningful ways.

So what exactly is an EFL teacher, and what does it take to become one? In this article, we will explain the role of an EFL teacher and the steps you can take if you are interested in this career.

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What Is EFL Teacher?

An EFL teacher is a teacher who teaches English to students in countries where English is not commonly used in daily life. 

EFL stands for English as a Foreign Language. This type of teaching usually takes place in schools, language centers, or private courses.

The main role of an EFL teacher is to help students develop their English skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Since students in an EFL environment rarely use English outside the classroom, teachers often create activities that encourage students to practice the language during lessons.

EFL teachers work with students of different ages and language levels. Some teach young learners in schools, while others teach teenagers, university students, or working professionals who want to improve their English for academic or career purposes.

ESL and EFL Difference

Unlike an EFL teacher, an ESL teacher helps students learn English in countries where English is widely used in daily life.

Indonesia is considered an EFL environment, while countries such as the United States and Australia are ESL environments. Many people move to these countries for study, work, or immigration, so they need to learn English to live and communicate in society. When they study English there, it is called English as a Second Language.

To understand better the difference between ESL and EFL, here are the further explanationsa:

1. Learning Environment

ESL usually takes place in countries where English is widely used in daily life. Students can hear and practice English outside the classroom in places such as shops, public transport, and social settings.

EFL takes place in countries where English is not commonly used in everyday communication. Students mainly practice English during lessons at school or in language courses.

2. Student Exposure to English

Students in an ESL environment are exposed to English more often because they live in an English speaking community. This helps them practice the language naturally in daily activities.

In an EFL environment, students have limited exposure to English outside the classroom. Most of their practice happens during lessons.

3. Teaching Approach

ESL teachers often focus on practical communication skills that students need to live and interact in an English speaking country.

EFL teachers usually create more classroom activities such as discussions, role play, and language exercises to give students enough opportunities to practice English.

4. Student Goals

Students who study ESL often want to improve their English so they can study, work, or live in an English speaking country.

Students who study EFL may learn English for academic requirements, career opportunities, or international communication.

Although the learning environments are different, both ESL and EFL teachers share the same goal, which is helping students build confidence and improve their English skills.

Responsibilities of an EFL Teacher

EFL teachers play an important role in helping students learn English in countries where the language is not commonly used in daily life. Their responsibilities go beyond simply teaching vocabulary or grammar. Here are some of the main duties of an EFL teacher.

1. Plan and prepare lessons

EFL teachers create lesson plans that match the students’ English level and learning objectives. A good lesson usually includes a mix of explanation, practice activities, and student interaction to help learners understand and apply new language skills.

2. Teach English language skill

One of the main responsibilities of an EFL teacher is teaching the core language skills, including speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Teachers also help students understand grammar, vocabulary, sentence structure, and pronunciation so they can communicate more effectively.

3. Create engaging classroom activities

Because students in an EFL environment may rarely use English outside the classroom, teachers often design activities that encourage students to practice the language. These activities may include discussions, role play, group work, games, and presentations.

4. Monitor and assess student progress

EFL teachers evaluate how well students are learning through quizzes, assignments, classroom participation, and tests. This helps teachers understand the students’ strengths and areas that need improvement.

5. Provide feedback and guidance

Teachers give feedback on students’ performance to help them improve their language skills. Constructive feedback helps students understand their mistakes and learn how to use English more accurately.

6. Manage the classroom environment

Maintaining a positive and supportive classroom atmosphere is another important responsibility. EFL teachers encourage participation, manage student behavior, and create a learning environment where students feel comfortable practicing English.

7. Adapt teaching methods to students’ needs

Students have different learning styles and language levels, so EFL teachers often adjust their teaching strategies. Some classes may focus more on conversation practice, while others may require more grammar explanation or reading activities.

Requirements To Be EFL Teacher

If you want to become an EFL teacher, schools usually look for several qualifications. Based on the recruitment criteria used by Odysee Education, here are some common requirements for English teachers.

• Native or fluent English speaker
• ESL or TEFL teaching certification such as CELTA, TESOL, DELTA, or TEFL
• Teaching experience, preferably at least two years
• Bachelor degree in English, education, or a related field is an advantage
• Willing to complete a criminal background check
• Healthy and free from diseases and drug abuse
• Commitment to a teaching contract, usually around ten months
• Professional attitude, including discipline and good communication
• Genuine interest in teaching students
• Adaptable, sociable, and energetic personality
• Culturally sensitive and open minded

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Becoming an EFL teacher in Indonesia can be a great opportunity for native English speakers who want to gain international teaching experience while exploring a new culture. Many schools in Indonesia are looking for qualified English teachers who can help students improve their communication skills and confidence in using English.

If you are a native English teacher interested in teaching in Indonesia, working with a trusted education consultant like Odysee Education can help make the process easier. From finding the right school to understanding the requirements, the right support can help you start your teaching journey smoothly.

Odysee Education works with many schools across Indonesia to recruit qualified native English teachers. If you are interested in teaching English in Indonesia, you can connect with Odysee Education to explore available opportunities and learn more about the application process. 

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