Steps to Become an English Teacher to Speakers of Other Languages
If you want to become an English teacher to speakers of other languages (TESOL), you'll need to understand the degree program options as well as student teaching requirements and licensure requirements.
We'll share everything you need to know about how to become an English teacher to speakers of other languages (TESOL) and how these teaching programs differ from traditional English language arts teaching jobs.
Terms to Know
TESOL: Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) is an educational field and certification dedicated to instructing individuals whose primary language is not English. It encompasses a wide range of teaching environments, including English-speaking countries and non-English-speaking countries, and caters to learners of all ages and proficiency levels.
ESL: English as a Second Language (ESL) refers to the teaching of English to non-native speakers within English-speaking countries. The focus is on improving the language skills necessary for effective communication and integration into societies where English is the primary language.
ELA: English Language Arts (ELA) is an academic discipline that involves the study and teaching of literature, writing, reading, and language skills primarily to native English speakers. It is a core subject in many educational systems and aims to develop critical thinking, communication skills, and a deep understanding of texts and language.
Understanding ESL and TESOL
The ESL (English as a Second Language) program is specifically tailored to instruct non-native English speakers in mastering the English language. The curriculum focuses on enhancing skills such as speaking, listening, reading, and writing with the ultimate objective of fostering proficiency that enables successful engagement within environments where English is predominantly used.
TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) encompasses a broader spectrum by facilitating the teaching of English across various contexts. This includes teaching individuals in countries where English is the native language and overseas locations while addressing all levels of age and skill mastery.
Key Differences Between ESL/TESOL and Traditional English Teachers
English teachers specializing in TESOL concentrate on teaching English language learners for whom English is not their first language. This contrasts with conventional English teacher roles aimed at native speakers, which emphasizes literature and writing skills.
Key Differences
Who They Teach
- TESOL Teachers: Non-native English speakers from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds, often in diverse settings ranging from K-12 public schools to adult education centers and overseas programs.
- Traditional English Teachers: Native English-speaking students, focusing on the study of literature, language arts, and composition within a standard educational curriculum, often in middle school or high school.
Where They Work
- TESOL Teachers: May work both domestically within English-speaking countries and internationally in countries where English is not the primary language. They can be found in public schools, language institutes, universities, corporate settings, and online platforms.
- Traditional English Teachers: Primarily work in English-speaking regions, in environments such as public and private schools. They may find jobs as secondary school teachers (high school English teacher) or teaching middle school.
How They Become Certified
- TESOL Teachers: Typically require a specialized certification in TESOL or TEFL, which can be obtained through accredited programs that offer coursework in language pedagogy, linguistics, and cultural sensitivity.
- Traditional English Teachers: Often need a degree in Teaching, English, or Education, followed by state-specific teacher certification, which includes student teaching experience and passing licensure exams.
What They Teach
- TESOL Teachers: Focus on equipping students with functional communication abilities necessary for everyday interactions and vocational assimilation
- Traditional English Teachers: Concentrate exclusively on structured analysis of grammar rules or literary works characteristic of traditional academic programs.
Similarities
- Both require a bachelor's degree.
- Both can benefit from advanced training through a specialized master's degree.
- Prospective teachers must complete a teacher preparation program.
- Both require strong classroom management skills.
Educational Requirements for Aspiring TESOL Teachers
Becoming a TESOL teacher requires a strong foundation in the English language and pedagogy, as well as a deep understanding of cultural nuances and language acquisition processes. Aspiring TESOL teachers must be well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of their students, who come from a variety of linguistic backgrounds and learning contexts.
Earning a Bachelor's Degree That Sets the Foundation For Becoming an English Teacher
The first step in becoming a TESOL teacher is earning a bachelor's degree in the field of education, teaching, or English that encompasses:
- Mastery of the English language
- Instructional strategies
- Study of linguistics
- Techniques for cross-cultural communication
- Integration of cultural diversity into curriculum planning
Graduates who have earned their Bachelor's degree and taken the necessary certification exams to obtain a teaching license are then qualified to take on teaching roles within domestic ESL programs or to participate in TESOL roles in other countries.
Advancing With a Master's Degree That Includes a Teacher Preparation Program
For those who choose to take their education one step further, a Master's degree in TESOL can open up a variety of career opportunities in educational settings such as public and private schools, colleges, and positions abroad. Those with an advanced degree may find themselves in roles that involve curriculum development, delivering English instruction within the community, and overseeing language education programs.
Benefits of a Master's in TESOL
A Master's in TESOL can significantly enhance your career in various ways, giving you with advanced knowledge and skills needed for a fulfilling journey in teaching English to speakers of other languages.
Advanced Training in Language Education
By engaging with comprehensive coursework on linguistic theories, second language acquisition, and educational psychology, you'll gain a deeper understanding of how people learn languages. This knowledge is crucial for developing effective teaching strategies that can adapt to the diverse needs of learners.
Experiential Learning and Classroom Readiness
Programs like the Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) at Pepperdine University enrich your learning with hands-on teaching experiences, preparing you to navigate classroom dynamics confidently. Through practical teaching experiences, often integrated into your studies, you're not just learning about teaching methods in theory but applying them in real classrooms. This direct application helps refine your teaching style, manage classroom dynamics, and respond to the challenges of teaching English to non-native speakers with confidence.
Gateway to Opportunities in Academia and Beyond
With a Master's degree, you're not limited to teaching in traditional language schools. You become eligible for roles in higher education, such as lecturing at universities or contributing to English language programs in community colleges. This opens up a path to influence the field of English language learning at a higher level.
Eligibility for Senior Educational Positions
Many leadership roles within schools and educational programs require a Master's degree as a baseline qualification. This could mean leading a team of teachers, developing curriculum, or managing language programs, where you can drive educational standards and innovations.
Diverse Career Pathways and Consulting Possibilities
The versatility of a Master's in TESOL allows for career paths beyond the classroom, including creating educational content for online platforms, organizing language camps, or offering expert consultancy services to schools and language programs. This degree equips you with the skills to operate in multifaceted educational environments.
Enhanced Professional Credibility and Marketability
Holding a Master's degree in TESOL not only adds a prestigious credential to your resume but also positions you as a committed and knowledgeable professional in the field. This can make you more attractive to employers and increase your chances of landing roles with greater responsibility and creativity in teaching.
Networking and Professional Growth
Being part of a Master's program exposes you to a network of professionals, including educators, researchers, and industry leaders. These connections can lead to collaborative projects, research opportunities, and insights into emerging trends in language education, enriching your professional journey.
Global Mobility
A Master's in TESOL enhances your qualifications for teaching positions worldwide, offering the opportunity to experience different cultures and teaching contexts. This global perspective can enrich your teaching practices and offer a more fulfilling career path.
Potential for Higher Earnings
With the advanced qualifications that a Master's degree provides, you're often in a better position to negotiate higher salaries. Educational institutions and language programs recognize the value of your comprehensive training and are willing to invest in your expertise.
Personal Fulfillment and Lifelong Learning
Pursuing a Master's degree is not just about professional advancement; it's also a journey of personal development. It challenges you to think critically, innovate in your teaching methods, and continuously learn from your experiences. This commitment to personal and professional growth can lead to a more rewarding career and a deeper sense of satisfaction in your work.
The Importance of Practical Experience
The well-known saying, “Practice makes perfect,” holds true for TESOL educators. For these instructors to enhance their confidence and proficiency in teaching, hands-on experience is essential. Internships involving student teaching enable prospective TESOL teachers to transition from theoretical learning to the application of that knowledge within a real classroom environment.
Student Teaching
A student teaching internship is a required component of a Master's in TESOL program and is essential in transforming abstract theoretical understanding into the practical experience you need to teach English in a real classroom setting. During student teaching, aspiring teachers have the opportunity to:
- Engage in observation
- Conduct actual teaching sessions
- Create educational materials for the classroom
- Obtain constructive feedback on their teaching skills
- Collaborate closely with a mentor who is an experienced teacher
- Master effective pedagogical techniques
- Progressively take on greater responsibility for managing classes
As an integral element of a teacher preparation program, student teaching provides prospective TESOL teachers with critical hands-on skills. This training enhances their readiness and competitiveness for various English teacher jobs and is typically at the heart of a comprehensive teacher training program.
Where to Find Jobs as a TESOL Teacher
Once you have the qualifications and practical experience, the next step to becoming an English teacher is to find the right position. A TESOL certification can broaden your career options, opening doors to roles in international schools or private language academies that may offer better salaries.
Educational Institutions
- International Schools: These schools serve expatriate and local students, offering international curriculums (like the International Baccalaureate) and often looking for teachers with a solid background in TESOL for their English or ESL programs.
- Public Schools: Some countries hire TESOL-certified teachers for their public school systems to work as English language or ESL teachers, particularly in areas with high numbers of non-native English speakers.
- Private Language Academies: Private institutions focusing on language education often seek TESOL-certified English teachers for students ranging from young learners in elementary or middle school to adults. These schools might specialize in general English, business English, or exam preparation courses.
- Community Colleges/Adult Education Centers: Offering courses to adult learners, these institutions provide opportunities for English teachers to work with immigrants, refugees, and international students looking to improve their English for academic or professional reasons.
- Universities: With a Master's in TESOL, English teaching jobs extend to university-level ESL programs, where you might also be involved in curriculum development, research, and mentoring language tutors.
Online Platforms and Remote Teaching
- Online Language Schools: The rise of digital education has led to an increase in online teaching positions, where teachers can work remotely, teaching students from around the world.
- Freelance Online Tutoring: Platforms that connect tutors with students for one-on-one lessons are another avenue, offering flexibility in schedule and teaching content.
Specialized Programs and Others
- Corporate English Training: Businesses globally hire TESOL English teachers to provide English training to their employees, focusing on business communication skills.
- Educational Consultancy and Curriculum Development: For those with extensive experience or advanced degrees, consulting roles in curriculum design or teacher training programs are viable career paths.
Start Your Journey as an English Teacher To Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Teaching Today!
Now that you know how to become an English teacher to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), it's time to take those crucial first steps toward your rewarding career. Begin by researching degree programs, familiarizing yourself with the teaching certification process, and seeking out opportunities for hands-on teaching experience.
With the right education, certification, and preparation, you're well on your way to making a significant impact as an English teacher to speakers of other languages. Your commitment to excelling in the English language and your enthusiasm to teach English will form the foundation of your professional achievements. As you progress through the various stages of your educational path, recognize that each milestone you reach brings you closer to changing lives through the power of language education.