TEL 6110 Foundations of TESOL Methods

This course introduces students to a brief and relevant history of teaching English language with emphasis placed on current, effective approaches and issues.  Students will examine strengths and drawbacks of a variety of approaches, while also considering the role of concepts such as agency, interaction, and identity.  The course will also explore contexts of learning that take into account age, proficiency, culture, and social aspects of learners’ identities and how these affect the teaching and learning dynamic. Students will acquire the foundational knowledge that will allow them to understand the rationale and process of designing and implementing instruction. Students may complete a field experience as part of the course requirements.