Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL)
Program Overview
Humber’s Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) graduate certificate program builds confident and knowledgeable teachers who develop a full understanding of best practices in teaching English as a second language (ESL). Our innovative curriculum is based on the latest ESL teaching approaches, methods and assessment systems including the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) and the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). You will be exposed to a wide range of theoretical issues including adult second language acquisition, learning theories, linguistics, the emerging field of teaching with technology and portfolio-based language assessment (PBLA). More importantly, you will have the opportunity to immediately apply this learning through classroom observations and practice teaching.
Faculty members are highly respected, dedicated professionals with graduate credentials in the field and bring extensive ESL teaching and teacher training experience.
Upon successful completion of the program, a graduate will:
Plan syllabi, modules, lessons, activities, and assessment that support all learners in achieving their learning goals, drawing on knowledge of language, curriculum, instructional context, while addressing learners' needs and interests.
Explain the central concepts and conventions of the English language, including linguistic systems, language skills (listening, speaking, read, & writing), organizational patterns, pragmatics, and strategic competence in order to plan effective learning experiences.
Select from a wide range of teaching resources (print, digital, and realia) and technological tools to best meet learners' needs and enhance learners' engagement and motivation.
Adapt various curricular models within a given teaching context, in order to determine most appropriate teaching approaches, and/or frameworks, supporting documents and resources.
Deliver clear, engaging language instruction- face to face, online, or blended- that applies context- appropriate teaching approaches, strategies, techniques, and digital tools and draws on knowledge of language and second language learning processes.
Reflect on ongoing professional development needs, through collegial discussion, action research, and dynamic interaction with learners in order to self-assess and challenge developing practice.
Implement context-appropriate methods of assessment to monitor learner progress and to guide both instructors and learner's decision-making.
Interact with colleagues and students in ways that show respect for their diverse background and experiences.
Apply the principles and theories of second language acquisition and adult education, which also include linguistic, psychological, and soci-cultural factors affecting language acquisition, to pedagogical decisions in ELT contexts.
Communicate clearly, concisely and correctly, in the written, spoken and visual form in ways that fulfill the purpose and meet the needs of the students, employers, and peers.
Seek and incorporate feedback, advice, and professional learning to continuously improve teaching practice.
Curate a collection of professional artifacts reflecting a dynamic and evolving philosophy of language teaching and learning.
Work Placement
Students will complete a 50-hour observation and teaching practicum. Unlike many other institutions, our practicum is fully arranged and supervised, giving student-teachers the time to focus on their learning and preparation. Students fulfill their practicum requirements in a variety of settings which may include:
- adult ESL and Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) classes in the GTHA School Board and community agencies
- global practicum at partner institutions
- Humber’s English for Academic Purposes program
- Humber’s Continuous Professional Learning (CPL) department, enhanced language training (ELT)-related programs
The Humber Advantage
Work integrated learning in the form of a teaching practicum is central to the successful development of TESL professionals. The TESL practicum will give you hands-on experience in a variety of classroom settings, and will help build the foundation for your future teaching careers. This is your opportunity to apply the concepts, knowledge, and practical skills from the classroom to the workplace. During the practicum you will also acquire teaching techniques and develop professionalism from experienced Mentor Teachers.
"I took advantage of many opportunities provided by Humber while I was a student, dedicating myself to absorb as much knowledge from the program as possible. This included observation of LINC and Humber EAP classes, classroom micro-teaching, and teaching experiences. This helped me grow my teaching style as well as helped me confirm that teaching English is my true passion."
– Takuya Ogino, Humber TESL Graduate (2018)
Current job: English Teacher
"The best part of the program is the experience to learn from very professional and encouraging teachers. They always motivated me and help with my self-esteem and any doubts. The teaching strategies and methodology allowed me to participate and gain confidence. I believe the teachers' support is the reason why I have been able to find a great job for my career."
– Cathy Wang, Humber TESL Graduate
Current job: English Teacher
In this video, Morgan Cogswell, a graduate of the Graduate Certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL), shares her experience studying and taking the practicum in the program.
Your Career
Today, approximately one billion people worldwide are learning English and by 2030, half of the world’s population is expected to speak English. Teach ESL in adult ESL programs in school boards, colleges and universities, and government-sponsored agencies across Ontario, as well as in private schools and academic institutions around the world teaching English as a foreign language. Career opportunities also include workplace ESL, academic ESL and ESL program administration in the public and private sectors.
In addition, each summer, select graduates are hired as ESL teaching interns in Humber’s highly regarded and dynamic international summer language program under the guidance of a mentor faculty member.
Professional Accreditations & Recognition
TESL Canada (Standard II) and TESL Ontario
This program is recognized by TESL Canada and TESL Ontario as an accredited program. Qualified students have the opportunity to apply for professional teacher accreditation with TESL Canada and TESL Ontario.
Additional requirements may apply.
Note: The requirements for the additional credential(s) are determined by the granting body, which is independent from the College. Students are encouraged to obtain the specific requirements directly from the granting body before enrolling.
TESL Graduate Certificate Program Video
Watch the video to learn about the benefits of the Teaching English as a Second Language Graduate Certificate program at Humber through the experience of faculty and students.
Humber Students Benefit from Five Centres of Innovation (COIs)
The Humber Centres of Innovation Network demonstrates our strong commitment to providing an experiential learning environment for students. Students and faculty work with industry partners on real-world challenges to prepare them to become the innovative and strategic problem-solvers of tomorrow. Come to Humber and experience interdisciplinary learning across five COIs.
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