Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
Learn top theories, methodology, and lesson-planning techniques used in teaching English to adult speakers of other languages.
This program is currently under review and is not open to applications. Please watch here for updates.
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
Info Week at VCC
Join us online or in-person for our info sessions, April 28 - May 2.
What you will learn
Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- Develop level-appropriate lesson plans that address a specific learning objective
- Deliver student-centred language lessons using current methods and approaches, appropriate tools and resources, and in consideration of effective classroom management and student engagement strategies
- Identify differences in English language proficiency levels using an established framework (e.g. the Canadian Language Benchmarks)
- Differentiate between various assessment approaches in English language learning
- Employ critical reflection strategies to improve and hone their practice
- Act in an ethical and professional manner when working in an EAL teaching and working environment
- Explain foundational theories in language learning and instruction
- Articulate the importance of intercultural communication in the EAL classroom
What to expect
Program Duration and Maximum Time for Completion
The program is 7 weeks of full-time study (140 hours).
Maximum time for completion: 1 year
This intensive program has been designed to involve the student in a variety of learning environments and instructional delivery methods. Courses may be offered face-to-face, online, or blended format. Students will participate in lectures, demonstrations, group work, practice teaching sessions and lesson presentations. There is a supervised practicum.
Admission requirements
Program-specific
- A Bachelor's degree from an accredited university
- Applicants with degrees from accredited universities in countries in which English is not an official language will be required to provide evidence of English language proficiency through one of the following:
- IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System) with a minimum overall score of 7, with no band lower than 7, or
- TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-based Test) overall 101 with a minimum of 23 in Listening, 24 in Reading, 27 in Speaking, and 27 in Writing
General
- This program is available to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. See program options for international students at VCC International.
- Applicants who self-identify as Indigenous are strongly encouraged to connect with VCC’s Indigenous Education and Community Engagement team to learn more about VCC’s Indigenous Enrolment policy, application preparation/completion, program advising, and a range of other individualized services.
- Applicants must be 16 years of age or older or a graduate of a secondary school. (Some exceptions may apply.)
- Applicants must submit official transcripts and other documents as required by their course or program. Seats are offered to eligible applicants with completed applications, in order of application completion date (except for programs with competitive admissions). A complete application includes an application form, evidence of educational pre-requisites (e.g. transcripts), any required supporting documents (e.g. language proficiency, audition video), and the required deposit or fee payment. If you do not meet the requirements for the term applied, your application may be cancelled.
Missing prerequisites? Learn more about VCC's tuition-free academic upgrading or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, or discover which university transfer options are right for you.
Recommended Characteristics
- An interest in the English language and approaches to teaching
- An understanding of cross-cultural values and beliefs
- Experience in working or volunteering with people of other cultures
- Experience in learning a second language or volunteering in an ESOL class
- Warmth, empathy and patience for those learning a new language and culture
- Excellent oral and written communication skills in English
Courses *
This program must be completed within a year.
Prior learning assessment and recognition
Students may request formal recognition of prior learning attained through informal education, work, or other life experience, including Indigenous ways of knowing. Credits may be granted to students who are able to sufficiently demonstrate the learning outcomes of specific courses.
PLAR is available for all courses in the program, except:
- TESO 1251 Practicum 1
Students may apply for a maximum of 4 credits of PLAR and transfer credit. Tuition and fees may still apply to PLAR candidates.
Methods of PLAR vary by course, and may include exams, portfolios, interviews, and other evaluations.
To request PLAR, please contact the department directly. See Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition policy for more information.
* This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.
Info Week at VCC
Join us online or in-person for our info sessions, April 28 - May 2.