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English Language Center

TESOL Training Course

Summer-09 Course: June 1 - July 1, 2009
Tuesday & Thursdays 6:00 - 9:00pm, Campus

Fall-09 Course: September 30 - December 9, 2009
Wednesdays, 6:00 - 9:00pm, UMBC Campus
(University Center, Room 201B)
Registration opens August 17, 2009

Spring-10 Course: February 24 - May 5, 2010
Wednesdays, 6:00 - 9:00pm, UMBC Campus
Registration opens January 11, 2010

Who Should Attend| Registration| Course Fees| FAQs |Other TESOL Training | Teaching Opportunities

Course Description 

This non-credit, intensive course provides participants with the latest methodologies associated with teaching English language learners (ELLs) of different ages in various learning contexts. Participants will discuss and practice a wide variety of strategies and techniques for teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL). While exploring best practices for teaching listening, speaking, reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation, participants learn how to create an effective and communicative language classroom for all ELLs.

The course uses a practical, hands-on approach that includes classroom observations and practice teaching (microteaching). By the end of the TESOL Training Course, participants should be able to:

  • Become familiar with both traditional and modern second language teaching methods.
  • Explore the fundamental principles for teaching listening, speaking, reading, writing, vocabulary, and grammar in an ESOL classroom.
  • Develop and practice language teaching and classroom management techniques for teaching ESOL to learners of all ages in the U.S. and overseas.
  • Examine the processes of language and literacy development in a communicative language classroom.
  • Explore the possibilities for utilizing available technologies to enhance teaching and learning.
  • Discuss best practices in ESL/EFL Assessment.
  • Develop cultural awareness and intercultural communication skills necessary for teaching English to speakers of other languages.
  • Develop ESL/EFL activities and clearly sequenced lesson plans that demonstrate best practices in TESOL.

Course Requirements
TESOL Training Course participants will receive a certificate of completion based on attendance and successful demonstration of mastery of the skills and knowledge presented in the course. Successful completion will be demonstrated through:

1. Active participation in all sessions.

2. Attendance for at least 80% of the course sessions.

3. Completion of two outside observations and the associated tasks.

4. Successful completion of the lesson plan and microteaching (a grade of “C” or better on the rubric used).

Who Should Attend
This is intended as an introductory course for individuals who may be interested in teaching in community-based adult programs in the U.S. or teaching English abroad. This course is also perfect for those interested in volunteer positions or for those considering a career change. In addition, we welcome recent college graduates or seniors getting ready to graduate who are considering teaching English as a career option.

Course Registration
Applicants are required to have at least a bachelor's degree and possess basic computer skills. Prior ESL teaching experience is not required. Applicants who are finishing their bachelor’s degree or have an associate’s degree will be considered.

Registration is taken on a first-come, first-serve basis. Class enrollment is limited so we suggest you register as early as possible. If the course is full, we can keep your application form until registration begins for the next available class.

Course Fees
Face-to-face course:  $700

To register, mail or fax your completed application, a current resume and payment to the ELC:

UMBC English Language Center
1000 Hilltop Circle
University Center, Room 207
Baltimore, MD 21250
Fax:     410 455-1115

For additional information please contact us at elc@umbc.edu or at 410-455-2831.

 Frequently Asked Questions

1. What type of teaching position could I expect to qualify for at the completion of this program?
The type of position you would qualify for depends on a number of factors, such as your prior professional experience, the type of position you are applying for and the position's academic requirements. Students who have completed this course have found positions teaching English abroad, in community-based adult English programs and adult literacy programs as well as many volunteer opportunities.>

2. Does this certificate qualify me to teach English in U.S. schools?
This is a non-credit program that does not meet the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) requirements for certification to teach ESOL in elementary through secondary schools.

3. Is job placement assistance provided during or after the program?
Students often learn about possible job opportunities through networking with course faculty, guest speakers and other course participants. Students will learn about various TESOL professional associations and related resources for exploring different career opportunities. The program faculty and staff are always available to provide guidance and answer questions about the TESOL job market.

What can I do to learn more after taking the TESOL Training Course?
UMBC has a proven reputation in the area of ESOL Professional Training and works with teachers from all over the world.  For further professional development you have the following option at UMBC:

  • UMBC’s Department of Education currently offers a ESOL Post-Baccalaureate Certificate and an ESOL/Bilingual MA Program. If you are interested a graduate degree in TESOL or would like to teach in the U.S. K-12 public school system, please go to the ESOL Program website or contact Dr. John Nelson at jnelson@umbc.edu

Other TESOL Training
UMBC has a proven reputation in the area of ESOL Professional Training and works with teachers from all over the world.  The Department of Education currently offers a ESOL Post-Baccalaureate Certificate and ESOL/Bilingual Masters of Arts. 

English Teaching Opportunities

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