Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

Learn top theories, methodology, and lesson-planning techniques used in teaching English to adult speakers of other languages.

What you will Learn

Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will be able to:

• Develop level-appropriate lesson plans that address a specific learning objective
• Deliver student-centred language lessons using current methods and approaches, appropriate tools and resources, and in consideration of effective classroom management and student engagement strategies
• Identify differences in English language proficiency levels using an established framework (e.g. the Canadian Language Benchmarks)
• Differentiate between various assessment approaches in English language learning
• Employ critical reflection strategies to improve and hone their practice
• Act in an ethical and professional manner when working in an EAL teaching and working environment
• Explain foundational theories in language learning and instruction
• Articulate the importance of intercultural communication in the EAL classroom

???????What you will Learn

Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will be able to:

• Develop level-appropriate lesson plans that address a specific learning objective
• Deliver student-centred language lessons using current methods and approaches, appropriate tools and resources, and in consideration of effective classroom management and student engagement strategies
• Identify differences in English language proficiency levels using an established framework (e.g. the Canadian Language Benchmarks)
• Differentiate between various assessment approaches in English language learning
• Employ critical reflection strategies to improve and hone their practice
• Act in an ethical and professional manner when working in an EAL teaching and working environment
• Explain foundational theories in language learning and instruction
• Articulate the importance of intercultural communication in the EAL classroom

What to Expect

This intensive program has been designed to involve the student in a variety of learning environments and instructional delivery methods.

Courses may be offered face-to-face, online, or blended format. Students will participate in lectures, demonstrations, group work, practice teaching sessions and lesson presentations. There is a supervised practicum.

Admission Requirements

Program-Specific

• A Bachelor's degree from an accredited university
• Applicants with degrees from accredited universities in countries in which English is not an official language will be required to provide evidence of English language proficiency through one of the following: 
  • IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System) with a minimum overall score of 7, with no band lower than 7, or
  • TOEFL iBT  (Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-based Test) overall 101 with a minimum of 23 in Listening, 24 in Reading, 27 in Speaking, and 27 in Writing

General

• This program is available to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. See program options for international students at VCC International.
• Applicants who self-identify as Indigenous are strongly encouraged to connect with VCC’s Indigenous Education and Community Engagement team to learn more about VCC’s Indigenous Enrolment policy, application preparation/completion, program advising, and a range of other individualized services.
• Applicants must be 16 years of age or older or a graduate of a secondary school. (Some exceptions may apply.)
• Applicants must submit official transcripts and other documents as required by their course or program. Seats are offered to eligible applicants with completed applications, in order of application completion date (except for programs with competitive admissions). A complete application includes an application form, evidence of educational pre-requisites (e.g. transcripts), any required supporting documents (e.g. language proficiency, audition video), and the required deposit or fee payment. If you do not meet the requirements for the term applied, your application may be cancelled.

???????Recommended Characteristics

• An interest in the English language and approaches to teaching
• An understanding of cross-cultural values and beliefs
• Experience in working or volunteering with people of other cultures
• Experience in learning a second language or volunteering in an ESOL class
• Warmth, empathy and patience for those learning a new language and culture
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English