Teaching English is a fun and rewarding career that can take you around the world. Vancouver Career College's Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) program gives students the skills and knowledge to enter this exciting and fulfilling field.
Also known as TESOL or TEFL, the Teaching English as a Second Language program trains students in the most effective teaching techniques, including interactive activities and games. This program includes a 30-hour practicum placement that will prepare them to enter the job market. Students also learn about job search techniques specific to this industry.
This program is recognized by TESL Canada and graduates are eligible for TESL Canada Professional Certificate Standard Two.
"Everything I learned at Vancouver Career College helped me to be more effective at my job. It allowed me to get a background on what I would do at an actual job.” - Clarissa V., Vancouver Career College Graduate
This program is 12 weeks in length.
Job Opportunities
- ESL Teacher
- TEFL Teacher
- English language tutor
Program Courses
The program outline below is for British Columbia.
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| L1050 |
ESL Employment Perspectives |
25 |
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- In this module, students will review the principles of effective ESL teaching gained throughout the program. Students will then prepare to find work in the field of ESL teaching, both domestically and internationally. The instructor will advise students on a variety of job finding resources. Students will learn to write a resume and cover letter. There will also be interview technique workshops and practice sessions. Students will have the use of the Job Search Lab which has unlimited Internet access, a job search resources library anda fax machine and phone for contacting prospective employers. Finally, students will learn stress management strategies and look ahead to professional development opportunities in the field of English language teaching.
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| E1270 |
Learner Differences |
25 |
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- Students learn how to teach ESL learners of different ages, backgrounds and purposes. This module will cover the planning of activities and lessons to suit different age groups, motivations and learning styles. Attention will be given to the teaching of multi-level classes. Students will learn about tutoring and teaching of specialized courses (TOEIC, TOEFL and Business English). To learn about working with people from a variety of different cultures, students will also take workshops in cross-cultural awareness.
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- This component of the program will involve student placement in the classroom of an experienced ESL sponsor teacher. With the support and supervision, student teaching will begin with setting up, running and closing of language learning activities and culminate with the delivery of lessons. This is a learning-based practicum, with continuous support, instruction and evaluation by the sponsor teacher and practicum supervisor / TESL instructor.
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| E1260 |
Teaching Language Skills |
50 |
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- Students will learn about the theory and practice of teaching the four language skills: reading, listening, speaking and writing. In learning to teach language skills, students understand how to structure activities and lessons to maximize ESL motivation and learning. Students will also learn how to integrate their skills in their teaching.
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| E1250 |
Teaching Language Systems |
75 |
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- Students will learn about teaching the four language systems: vocabulary, grammar, functions and pronunciation. Specific methodology studied will involve the presentation, concept check and practice of each language system. Students will also understand how to develop accuracy and fluency. Students will learn how to test learner language ability and progress.
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- This overview will orient students to the fundamental aspects of Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL). Students will learn English language teaching terminology and study the historical evolution in language teaching. Students will also undertake a practical study of good teaching practices and demonstrate their ability to design and teach lessons with a learner-centred approach. Communicative language lesson structure and techniques, lesson planning and classroom management are all covered in this introductory course.
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| E1350 |
Using Resources Effectively |
25 |
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- In this module, students will develop their understanding of ESL resource use and creation. Students will learn about different types of syllabi and timetables to ensure that they have effective techniques for long term planning. This module will also provide students with an understanding of how to assess and supplement course books. Students will also learn how to use a variety of teaching equipment. Internet lesson plans and ideas will be studied, along with the methodology for use of computer, video and music in English Language teaching. Effective lesson and material design for field trips will also be covered.