TESOL Methods

Introduction to Pedagogy and Practices for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL Methods) 

Course Overview

This course provides in-service English language educators with up-to-date information about current methodologies associated with teaching English language learners (ELLs) in various learning contexts. Participants discuss and apply a wide variety of strategies and techniques for teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL). While exploring best practices for teaching English, participants learn how to create an effective and communicative language classroom for all ELLs. In addition, participants will examine the meaning of best practices in the context of English teaching in the 21st Century.

Prerequisites

Candidates should be highly motivated in-service EFL educators, teacher trainers, or ministry officials who are both dedicated to their own professional development and willing to share their knowledge with colleagues. In addition, they should:

  • Have high intermediate to advanced level English language proficiency in all skill areas (approximately 525 TOEFL), particularly reading and writing.  
  • Have access 4-5 times per week minimum to reliable computers with high-speed Internet; expect to spend a minimum of 8-10 hours each week on coursework.
  • Have basic technology skills for email, the Web (e.g., searches, downloads, uploads, managing of course logins/passwords) and file management (e.g., PDF, MS Word, Excel).
  • The University of Oregon is committed to creating inclusive learning environments. Reasonable accommodation will be made for any documented disability. Please contact UO AEI eLearning staff to check accessibility or arrange for accommodations.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Engage in reflection on how their current teaching practices align with best practices in TESOL and what changes might be needed.
  • Engage in several methods of constructive peer feedback and self-assessment.
  • Incorporate a variety of techniques and approaches (collaborative learning, project-based learning, use of authentic materials, Web 2.0, etc.) into their teaching.
  • Create global, professional connections with colleagues in the field of English Language Learning and Teaching that continue beyond the scope of the TESOL Methods course.

Course Scope and Sequence

Custom courses may be designed for 5, 8, 9, or 10 weeks in length. Our typical program is 10-weeks long and covers the following topics:

  • Week 1: Self-Introductions. Community Building. "What makes a good discussion?"
  • Week 2: Learning Objectives. Task #1: Community-building activity.
  • Week 3: TESOL Methods and Cooperative/Collaborative Learning.
  • Week 4: Authentic Materials. Task #2: Cooperative or collaborative Learning Activity.
  • Week 5: Technology in Language Learning.
  • Week 6: Assessment. Task #3: Lesson plan for Authentic materials or for Technology.
  • Week 7: Project-Based Learning.
  • Week 8: Learner Feedback and Error Correction. Task #4: Lesson plan for Project-based Learning or for Assessment/Feedback.
  • Week 9: Classroom Management. Submission of Growth and Learning Portfolio.
  • Week 10: Growth and Learning Portfolio and peer feedback.

Course Requirements for Certificate of Completion

This class is Pass/No Pass. Participants must satisfactorily complete the course final project and all

course work with a final score of 70-100% to receive a certificate of completion.

Course participants will be required to:

  1. Read assigned texts and submit at least four posts a week that demonstrate understanding of and response to key concepts (35% of total score).
  2. Complete a weekly 5-point multiple-choice quiz on the course topics (10% of total score).
  3. Submit 4 tasks that demonstrate application of the course topics: creating a community building activity, creating a collaborative learning lesson plan, creating a lesson plan that incorporates authentic materials or technology, and designing an alternative assessment or project (35% of total score).
  4. Provide peer feedback on tasks.
  5. Submit a growth and learning portfolio that demonstrates personal growth and learning as a teacher as a result of the course (20% of total score).

Sample Materials and Resources

Other resources may be added or substituted according to participants’ needs and interests, and new developments in the field.