ESL? TESOL? Sometimes the jargon associated with teaching the English language to speakers of other languages can feel like a foreign language in itself.
Although some people still use the acronym ESL (English as a Second Language) to describe teaching English, many educators now choose to identify themselves with TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages).
There is a variety of Master’s in ESL / TESOL programs out there – and plenty of acronyms to remember – so it’s important to consider your goals before deciding to obtain a Master’s in ESL and selecting a program. Here are a few considerations you should think about:
- What can you do with a Master’s in ESL?
Obviously, you can use a Master’s in ESL / TESOL to teach learners of the English language. By obtaining a Master’s in ESL / TESOL, educators will be able to teach in traditional classrooms at primary, secondary or post-secondary schools.
But in addition, TESOL instructors can also educate foreign professionals from a range of industries who are looking to advance their careers by learning English, which has developed into the standard language of international business. - What does studying ESL or TESOL entail?
ESL / TESOL Master’s programs first focus on theories of second language acquisition. Coursework may also include discussion and analysis of current ESL or TESOL issues and position statements.
Master’s in ESL / TESOL students will also learn several practical methods and strategies of instruction. These will include implementation of both writing and speaking assignments, as well as literary comprehension exercises. Coursework will likely include curriculum development that teachers will apply later during their field-based learning.
This field-based learning component (a necessary portion of all quality Master’s in ESL / TESOL programs) is called a Practicum. It may consist of student teaching or other in-class internships, as well as the actual development and implementation of lesson plans. The field-based Practicum is often supervised by or completed in collaboration with a mentor teacher. - What are the job prospects for someone with a Master’s in ESL?
ESL jobs are expect to grow well into the coming years. According to a report released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the group of educators that includes ESL teachers held 96,000 jobs in 2008 and that number is expected to grow by more than 15% by 2018. This growth in the American ESL / TESOL job market stems from an anticipated influx of immigrants and other non-native English speakers. Therefore, states like Florida, Texas and California may offer the most positions for ESL / TESOL instructors.
In terms of salary, the BLS reports that ESL / TESOL teachers had median wages of just over $22 per hour in 2008.
To find out more about ESL / TESOL opportunities, visit TESOL Inc.’s “Career” page.
