Distance Learning

U California Irvine Launches Online Certificate Program in English Language Instruction

• By Michael Hart
• 02/23/16

The University of California Irvine Extension is launching an online certificate program designed to train teachers of English to speakers of other languages.

The certification program, which will begin this spring with two courses, is designed to be a mix of theory and practical experience in second language instruction. It is expected to provide core knowledge of the field: aspects of linguistics and sociolinguistics, English structure, teaching methods, literacy development, curriculum development and language assessment.

The target audience for the program will be recent college graduates, international students, aspiring educators, career changers and current teachers interested in improving their skills.

The new Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) program will be designed to allow students to earn a certificate in eight months.

Beginning April 4, "Theories of TESOL" will teach participants the language acquisition process and provide an understanding of language development. Launching May 9 will be "Teaching Reading and Vocabulary Skills," in which teachers can learn to help students develop reading fluency and comprehension skills.

To follow are courses titled:

• Methods of TESOL;
• Teaching Listening and Speaking Skills;
• Teaching English Grammar;
• Teaching Writing and Vocabulary Skills; and
• Teaching Practicum.

"Mastering the English language can be a challenge for non-native speakers," said Angela Jeantet, director of education and business program at UC Irvine Extension. "The TESOL program equips teachers with the skills and techniques to effectively teach non-English-speaking students."

For more information, visit the TESOL Web site or call (949) 824-9427.