Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Certificate - Second Language Teaching

Training in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) - Second Language Teaching is currently one of the most practical and versatile professional development endeavors in higher education today. 

The program is designed for anyone interested in any form of ESL (domestic or international) in any setting (K-12, higher education, informal education). 

The program prepares one to understand how languages are learned, how first languages and cultures of English learners affect learning styles, classroom interactions, and English language acquisition.

We start this four-course program covering theories of second-language acquisition, including issues of acquisition of English as a second language as well as other languages. Various theories of communication and language acquisition are covered.

The second course covers different cultural and linguistic strategies individuals use to communicate, essential concepts for interacting  with individuals from other cultural and linguistic backgrounds, and different strategies of communication as defined by specific cultures. Covering the theory and practice of intercultural interaction, the course examines assumptions about language and culture and includes practical advice to help students develop the cultural sensitivity essential for communication today.

By the third course we present the application of SLA theories in relationship to teaching, and reviews methods and materials needed for ESL instruction in a regular classroom and in a pullout program. This course demonstrates the knowledge of fundamental concepts and practices of ESL instruction with an emphasis on instructional materials and strategies. Participants will be able to identify appropriate materials and resources to be used with students at each level of English Proficiency.

The final course is a broad-spectrum course around the use of assessment tools, and other evaluation measurements for diagnosis, prescription, and evaluation of students in ESL programs. Participants will learn the effective assessment practice and support services available to ESL students. Participants will examine, explore and understand the purposes for assessment, multiple assessment models, use of evaluation techniques, scaffolding of assessments, and formal/informal assessment tools.

Finally, participants will gain hands-on experience in test administration, interpretation and reporting.

Coursework:

Certificate Program Form

Upon completion of your certificate program, you are required to complete this form.  By doing so, your certificate will appear on your Lehigh transcript and you will receive a formal certificate.