Goals and Objectives

The TESOL major and minor teach students about English as a language; provide knowledge about current teaching theories, practices, and techniques; and encourage familiarity with cultural variables that influence language learning. In acquiring K- 12 certification in TESOL, students have the opportunity to observe master teachers at work and to student teach. Student teaching is arranged through the College of Education and Professional Studies. For information on certification, contact Mike Martin, Certification Officer in the College of Education and Professional Studies.

Program

The TESOL major and minor includes a foreign language requirement: six credits of a foreign language, the high school equivalent, or proven proficiency in a foreign language. This foundation requirement is not included in the number of credit hours needed for the major proper. The cultural component of the TESOL program offers knowledge and practical experience in cultural studies, including possibilities of travel abroad. The program gives students the knowledge to describe English and other languages in the world. They also discover how language is acquired as a native speaker or learned as a foreign language. The program includes tutoring practice. Students work one-on-one or with a group of non-native speakers in the four language skill areas of listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

Faculty

Annette Klemp, Ph. D., Pennsylvania State University
Phone 715-425-3354 
Vladimir Pavlov, Ph.D., Odessa State University (Ukraine)
Phone 715-425-3173

For students planning to teach in the public schools:

• TESOL as second major or a minor can increase the marketability of future teachers.
• TESOL as a second major or minor can prepare future teachers for the challenges presented by a multicultural classroom containing non-native speakers with varying levels of English language proficiency.

For students seeking employment in the public sector or overseas:

• TESOL enables the students to prepare for employment in private U. S. institutes devoted to intensive or remedial English training of nonnative speakers.
• TESOL prepares the student for a variety of teaching positions available in other countries.

For students interested in pursuing a higher degree:

• TESOL provides the background knowledge necessary to pursue a master’s or doctorate degree in TESOL or in linguistics.