The presence of the WTEFLAC logo on a website provides reassurance that their claims can be trusted.
At first glance, it can be difficult to distinguish between TEFL or TESOL providers. Each of them has attractive and professional websites, and each makes bold claims about their respective courses. However, at that point, there is no way of knowing if they can deliver on their promises.
This is as much of a problem for providers as customers. Reputable course providers find it increasingly difficult to make themselves heard above a mass of poor cut price competitors. To do that they needed to provide something on their website that set them apart.
The Importance of Accreditation
A look at the website of Let’s TEFL provides a clear look at how a legitimate provider can do this.
On its homepage, Let’s TEFL provides to logos.
- Denoting it has been reviewed on Go Overseas.
- The WTEFLAC Logo.
Both demonstrate different ways in which legitimate TEFL and TESOL providers can differentiate themselves from less reputable competitors.
Product Reviews
Go Overseas is a recognised website for people looking to find work placements overseas. It covers opportunities for studies, gap year experiences and of course, TEFL courses. Providers are reviewed and rated by customers giving potential students an instant snapshot of what the provider offers and whether their course is any good.
Let’s TEFL has a healthy 97% rating on this site which is probably why they are so keen to tell customers about it.
Accreditation Bodies
Customer reviews are valuable but they can be subject to manipulation. A foolproof option comes through a recognised accreditation process which is where the WTEFLAC comes in,
The WTEFLAC set out to raise standards in the TEFL and TESOL sectors by creating a clear accrediting body that could provide reliable oversight of providers.
In order to be accredited, all providers had to demonstrate that they met the minimum standards set out in the code of practice and have their service reviewed by the accreditation board.
Only when they had satisfied the board was a company allowed to display the WTEFLAC logo on its website or marketing material.
Online Research
Another option is to do your own research. Legitimate companies leave footprints – aside from just their websites. They will be mentioned on review sites such as Go Overseas and on social media. Customers will be keen to share their experiences – both good and bad – to inform any other potential students.
Word of mouth advertising such as this can be invaluable in helping you to find the best providers and make a valuable informed decision.
Making the Choice
Whatever option you choose it pays to make sure that any provider you looked at can be backed up with substance. Online reviews and accreditation bodies are the best and most reliable methods to find out what providers can actually offer and to distinguish between poor quality and fraudulent operators. So, before you choose a provider, take some time to check for the presence of a logo.