Learning to Teach English as a Second Language

Learning to teach English as a second language can open the doors for many rewarding opportunities.

Getting Started: Learning about ESL Teaching Requirements

Qualifications for teaching English as a second or foreign language may vary, depending on the type of institution and state or country's designated requirements. A formal degree may not always be required, but having appropriate training and certification will expand the range of opportunities for an individual interested in this type of work. Requirements for teaching English as a second language may include:

  • A Bachelor's Degree in English, Linguistics, or related subject
  • Training or coursework in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL)
  • Cross cultural or bi-lingual certification, training, or other credentials
  • Teaching certification at some level
  • Teaching experience

Learning to Teach English as a Second Language: Training Programs

There are many institutions that offer teaching English as a second or foreign language coursework. These include colleges, community centers, and online training programs.

When considering training courses, look for accredited programs that offer authorized certification.

Individuals interested in teaching English as a second language should also be aware that although the terms TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language), TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), and TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) are often used interchangeably, there may some differences in courses. TESL refers to teaching English to international or immigrant students in English-speaking countries, while TEFL and TESOL often refer to teaching English to people in their native countries to enhance education or for business purposes.

Check with the localities where you anticipate seeking work to determine which type of course will be required or most beneficial. Training programs in teaching English as second language include:

  • Bachelor's Degree in TESL
  • Master's Degree in TESL
  • Distance Learning TESL Certificate programs
  • Online TESL Certificate Programs
  • Community or college based TESL Certificates
  • Certificate or Diploma in English Language Teaching to Adults (CELTA or DELTA)

There are also courses available to meet specific needs, such as (/esl/teaching-esl.html teaching English as a second language in elementary or secondary schools) for currently certified teachers. Basic TESL courses may take as little as four weeks, while others may be longer in duration. Courses may include foundations and instruction about the English language as a system, practicum or teacher training, and job placement assistance upon completion of the program.

Choosing a TESL Program

Choosing the right TESL program can be difficult. Some individuals choose enroll in TESL workshops to ensure they want to pursue this type of work prior to spending the time and money for certification. It can also be hard to determine which type of program is right for you. (http://www.english-international.com/training.html English International) offers a list of pros and cons about different types of teaching English as a second language programs. A college or university based program is a good choice, or a program recognized by a professional body such as:

There are also many other recognized professional organizations that may recommend TESL programs based in individual states or localities, such as CATESOL, the California Teachers of English as a Second Language association. For a comprehensive state list, visit ESL/EFL Directory of Teachers' Organizations.

Help for Students Learning to Teach English

Learning to teach English as a second language can mean opening doors to exciting new paths. Students who choose to take TESL training come form all backgrounds and are of many different ages. Some aspects of the training or coursework may be stressful or confusing. There are many resources to help students interested in becoming ESL teachers, however, ranging from a community center tutor to an elementary teacher specializing in working with English language learners.

The first place to seek additional help with coursework would be the institution where you are completing your training. Colleges and universities may offer tutoring or one-on-one assistance, while online and distance learning programs may offer live chat or e-mail support.

Students taking TESL courses can also visit various forums to chat with others and obtain suggestions and support. Once their training is completed, new teachers can also share ideas and get inspiration from visiting forums and English teaching sites, from how to teach an ESL class to teaching spelling strategies to ESL students.

  • English Clubhouse offers forums, blogs, and chat for English language teachers and learners.
  • 4ESL offers quizzes, puzzles, podcasts, and other resources helpful for new teachers.
  • ESL Monkeys has resources for students learning to teach English as a second language, TESL job leads, and tips for new teachers.
  • ESL Go offers teaching resources, activities, and forums.

Resources

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