It is critical to understand what an English as a second language (ESL) teacher certification entails before attempting to obtain one. The study of English someone whose first language is not English is known as ESL. These teachers, like other classroom teachers, require the same education and training. Though teachers are not required to be bilingual, they must take additional college-level ESL courses and gain practical experience in an ESL classroom.
ESL classes are available in the United States and other countries, and are taught ESL teachers. When teaching ESL students of all ages, ESL teacher certification is required. Students can range in age from toddlers to senior citizens. While it is important to distinguish between learning processes, most ESL teachers teach conversational speaking, reading, and writing in a similar manner, regardless of the age of the students.
ESL teacher certification is available from a variety of schools and for-profit organizations. Courses vary, but students typically earn credit hours in the same way they would at a traditional school. To earn an ESL certification, students may need to take anywhere from 50 to 150 class hours.
Online ESL teacher certification classes are also available. Teachers must generally gain classroom experience with students in an English as a second language class in order to obtain an ESL teacher certification. If the classes are held in person, the school may be able to provide this practical experience component to the students. If the classes are taken online or through distance learning, the student may record himself teaching an ESL student.
Teachers of English to speakers of other languages are required to obtain a certificate in teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL). The terms TESOL and ESL are frequently used interchangeably. Teachers may also be certified to teach English as a second language (TEFL). Teachers with TEFL certification are permitted to teach English outside of the United States, while teachers with ESL or TESOL certification are permitted to teach English within the United States.
ESL teachers in the United States are required to have a bachelor’s degree, a state teaching certificate, and specific ESL training. Many universities offer MATESOL, a master’s degree program that includes TESOL or ESL teacher certification. Bilingualism isn’t required for potential ESL teachers, but it can be advantageous.