TESL-6110: Introduction to Distance Education for TESOL (3 hours)

This course provides an overview of the theoretical framework, historical development and practical applications of distance education for TESOL education and language training environments. In addition, the course examines the application of distance learning technologies, online pedagogy and ethical practice in distance education focused on English language teaching and learning.

TESL-6200: Applied Philology and World Englishes (3 hours)

Familiarity with both standard and non‐standard varieties of English in countries where English is spoken as a first language, as an official language and as an influential foreign language. Examination of the conditions and contexts surrounding the development and expansion of English as a global language through historical, linguistic, social, cultural, political and literary concerns. Selected studies of sociolinguistic variables, language change, code‐switching and universal grammar to inform discussion of such variation as found in African-American English, Indian English, British dialects, and English-based pidgins and creoles. Critical awareness of standard language ideology debates, their implications on the emergence of new Englishes, and their impact on the internationalization and globalization of World Englishes. Investigation of revitalization efforts of indigenous and endangered languages. Course content to also include the fundamentals of philology in applied areas to analyze general problems of language and language use, and utilize philology as a reflection on the history of culture.

TESL-6210: Teaching ESL/EFL to Adult Learners (3 hours)

This course provides an introduction to adult learning theories and contexts for teaching the adult language learner. The course will examine goals, principles and best practices for teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language, and ways to evaluate adults’ second language development. In addition, the course will explore the influence of varying backgrounds on adult language learning to promote an effective, communicative language classroom for students of varied ages and levels in various adult language teaching situations.

TESL-6220: Curriculum Planning and Methodology (3 hours)

Introduction to curriculum theories and their application toward the process of curriculum development, from needs analysis to course evaluation, utilizing a needs-based, learner-centered approach to selecting, adapting, and designing curricula, courses and materials. Emphasis is on ESOL curricular design and appropriate instructional planning to address the socio-cultural, physical and educational needs of students in PreK-12 and university settings. Attention is given to English for Academic Purposes and Content-Based Instruction.

TESL-6230: Second Language Acquisition (3 hours)

Intensive examination of how humans learn second languages. Review of the theories and key concepts of first and second language acquisition. Examines theoretical models and research on such issues as differences between L1 and L2 acquisition, the variables that may affect the language development processes, the effect of age on language acquisition, cognitive factors in second language acquisition, and learner variables. Exploration of sociocultural factors included.

TESL-6240: Issues in Second Language Rhetoric and Composition (3 hours)

Examination of theories and practices underlying the teaching and learning of second-language writing. Inquiry into rhetorical, political, linguistic and pedagogical issues in teaching writing at English‐language institutes or at the college or university level to learners whose first or strongest language is not English. Emphasis on developing the background necessary to examine and refine one’s pedagogical position on the teaching of academic writing to linguistically and culturally diverse learners that includes English for Specific Purposes. Attention given to Contrastive Rhetoric and Computer-Mediated Communication.

TESL-6950: Independent Study in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (1-6 hours)

TESL-6980: TESOL Teaching Practicum I (3 hours)

This course is required for all M.A.TESOL students. Designed for students to engage in teaching, observation and reflection, students will engage in focused observation of teachers of English to nonnative learners and serve as volunteer teachers of English to non-native learners in domestic and international settings. The teaching experience will be used to support theoretical and practical applications of the planning, implementation and evaluation of an ESOL curriculum. Completion of weekly modules during the experience is required as well as a final culminating project.