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Dr. Shane Dixon,
Dr. Justin Shewell,
and
Jessica Cinco
In this course learners are introduced to second or foreign language theories and practices for teaching and assessing listening, speaking, and pronunciation. Learners will also be introduced to basic studies in second language acquisition and their pedagogical implications. Teachers will be invited to recognize the importance of grounding their own teaching philosophy through an examination of purpose, content, and technique.
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What's inside
Syllabus
The Swing of the Pendulum: A Brief Look at ESL History
In this course, learners are introduced to second or foreign language theories and practices for teaching and assessing English. Learners will also be introduced to basic studies in second language acquisition and their pedagogical implications. Teachers will be invited to recognize the importance of grounding their own teaching philosophy through an examination of purpose, content, and technique. In Week 1, learners are introduced to the concepts of purpose, content, and technique as they relate to language teaching, and to some of the themes that will be repeated throughout the course, such as the time machine analogy and the angel and devil debates.
Read more
Syllabus
The Swing of the Pendulum: A Brief Look at ESL History
In this course, learners are introduced to second or foreign language theories and practices for teaching and assessing English. Learners will also be introduced to basic studies in second language acquisition and their pedagogical implications. Teachers will be invited to recognize the importance of grounding their own teaching philosophy through an examination of purpose, content, and technique. In Week 1, learners are introduced to the concepts of purpose, content, and technique as they relate to language teaching, and to some of the themes that will be repeated throughout the course, such as the time machine analogy and the angel and devil debates.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Examines ESL methodologies from 1880 to the present day, grounding learners in current teaching principles
In-depth examination of the history of ESL principles and practices
Explores teaching practices from each era, highlighting contrasts and similarities
Taught by experienced instructors: Jessica Cinco, Dr. Shane Dixon, Dr. Justin Shewell
Applicable to both ESL and foreign language teaching
Requires extensive background knowledge in linguistics
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Reviews summary
Foundational theories of english language teaching
According to learners, this course provides a strong theoretical foundation in second language acquisition and teaching methodologies. Students appreciate the historical overview of different approaches, often highlighting the unique Angel and Devil Debate videos as an engaging way to explore opposing viewpoints. While some find the focus leans heavily on theory over practical application, many feel the course successfully introduces fundamental concepts crucial for understanding the field. The structure provides a clear progression through history, culminating in a review that helps solidify understanding for the final assessment.
Focuses strongly on foundational theories and concepts.
"This course is great for understanding the theories behind different teaching techniques."
"It provides a solid theoretical base in SLA and pedagogical approaches."
"If you want to understand the 'why' behind teaching methods, this course is a good start."
"I found the focus on theoretical underpinnings very informative."
Unique video format for exploring contrasting views.
"The 'Angel and Devil Debate' segments were a creative and engaging way to look at the pros and cons of each approach."
"I really enjoyed the debates; they made the theories feel more alive and debatable."
"That debate format is unique and helps you think critically about the different methods."
"Seeing the arguments for and against each approach in the debates was very helpful."
Presents concepts in a clear, chronological manner.
"The course is well-structured, moving logically through the different historical periods and approaches."
"I found the organization of the content, week by week, easy to follow."
"The progression from early methods to later ones is very clear."
"The final review module helps tie everything together nicely."
Explores the evolution of language teaching methods.
"The historical context provided at the beginning is invaluable for understanding where we are today in ESL."
"Going back in time to see the different approaches like Grammar Translation and Direct Approach was fascinating."
"I appreciate learning the history of language teaching methods; it gives great perspective."
"The course does a good job of tracing the history of different teaching methods, which is helpful."
Some learners desired more practical teaching strategies.
"While the theory is good, I was hoping for more concrete examples of how to apply these ideas in a classroom."
"It's very heavy on theory; I wish there were more practical teaching tips or activities shown."
"The course is foundational in theory, but might not be enough if you're looking for immediate classroom strategies."
"Could use more practical demonstrations or ideas for lesson planning based on the theories."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Teach English Now! Theories of Second Language Acquisition with these
activities:
Read 'Theories in Second Language Acquisition'
Show steps
This book provides a comprehensive overview of the major theories in second language acquisition, which will help you understand the theoretical foundations of the teaching methods and techniques you will learn in this course.
View
Task-Based Language Teaching: Theory and...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book's introduction and first chapter.
-
Read the chapters on the different theories of second language acquisition.
-
Summarize the main points of each theory.
-
Write a short essay comparing and contrasting the different theories.
Practice teaching listening and speaking skills
Show steps
This activity will help you develop the skills you need to effectively teach listening and speaking in a second language classroom.
Show steps
-
Find a partner to practice with.
-
Choose a topic to discuss.
-
Take turns listening and speaking.
-
Provide feedback to your partner.
Create a lesson plan for teaching listening and speaking skills
Show steps
This activity will help you apply the principles of second language acquisition to the development of effective listening and speaking lessons.
Browse courses on
Lesson Planning
Show steps
-
Choose a topic for your lesson.
-
Identify the learning objectives for your lesson.
-
Select the materials you will use in your lesson.
-
Write a detailed lesson plan.
-
Teach your lesson to a group of students.
Show all three activities
Read 'Theories in Second Language Acquisition'
Show steps
This book provides a comprehensive overview of the major theories in second language acquisition, which will help you understand the theoretical foundations of the teaching methods and techniques you will learn in this course.
View
Task-Based Language Teaching: Theory and...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book's introduction and first chapter.
- Read the chapters on the different theories of second language acquisition.
- Summarize the main points of each theory.
- Write a short essay comparing and contrasting the different theories.
Practice teaching listening and speaking skills
Show steps
This activity will help you develop the skills you need to effectively teach listening and speaking in a second language classroom.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a partner to practice with.
- Choose a topic to discuss.
- Take turns listening and speaking.
- Provide feedback to your partner.
Create a lesson plan for teaching listening and speaking skills
Show steps
This activity will help you apply the principles of second language acquisition to the development of effective listening and speaking lessons.
Browse courses on
Lesson Planning
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a topic for your lesson.
- Identify the learning objectives for your lesson.
- Select the materials you will use in your lesson.
- Write a detailed lesson plan.
- Teach your lesson to a group of students.
Show all three activities
Career center
Learners who complete Teach English Now! Theories of Second Language Acquisition will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Language Instructor
Language Instructor
The in-depth coverage of language teaching methods and assessment techniques taught in this course can help language instructors be more effective in their teaching.
Academic Researcher
Academic Researcher
Academic researchers in the field of language acquisition and pedagogy may find the theories and techniques discussed in this course to be helpful.
Bilingual Teacher
Bilingual Teacher
Bilingual teachers bridge the gap between different cultures and languages. This course can support bilingual teachers with its focus on second language acquisition theories and practical teaching methods.
Interpreter
Interpreter
Interpreters facilitate communication between people who speak different languages. This course can help interpreters understand the principles of language acquisition and how to effectively convey meaning across languages.
Translator
Translator
Translators convert written or spoken words from one language to another. The theories and techniques taught in this course will be helpful to translators as they work to accurately convey meaning across languages.
Language Specialist
Language Specialist
Language Specialists put theory into practice and can offer guidance and support to those learning a new language. This course can help prepare aspiring language specialists for their roles by providing a foundation in applied linguistics and teaching methodologies.
Curriculum Developer
Curriculum Developer
Curriculum developers who specialize in language may be able to use the theories studied in this course to help shape and improve the educational content they create.
Teacher
Teacher
Teachers instruct and guide students in acquiring language skills. For those interested in getting into teaching, lessons on the history of ESL, pedagogical techniques, and language acquisition may help build a foundation for your work in the field. This course also offers examination of different approaches to language teaching and opportunities to debate theories which could make you a more thoughtful and informed teacher in the classroom setting.
Educational Consultant
Educational Consultant
Educational consultants help educators and institutions to improve their teaching and learning practices. Those interested in moving into this role may find the background information on language acquisition and pedagogical techniques taught in this course to be beneficial.
Instructional Designer
Instructional Designer
Instructional designers create and develop educational programs and materials. Language-related courses can help instructional designers create language-learning programs that are effective and engaging.
Literacy Specialist
Literacy Specialist
Literacy specialists provide support to individuals with reading and writing difficulties. Those interested in this role may find the principles of language acquisition and pedagogical techniques taught in this course to be beneficial as they work with students to improve their literacy skills.
Education Program Manager
Education Program Manager
Those who manage educational programs may be able to use their knowledge of language acquisition and pedagogical techniques to improve the quality of their programs.
Content Writer
Content Writer
Content writers create written content for a variety of purposes. This course can help content writers understand the principles of language acquisition and how to write in a way that is clear and engaging for second language learners.
Linguist
Linguist
Understanding language acquisition is valuable for those in the field of linguistics. The principles and theories taught in this course may be useful to someone who wants to study linguistics and offer a deeper dimension to your understanding of language.
Speech Therapist
Speech Therapist
Speech therapists work with those who have difficulty with speaking, listening, or communicating. This course may be helpful to speech therapists as it offers insights into language acquisition and theories of second language learning.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/ocgmvd/teach
Reading list
We've selected 12 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Teach English Now! Theories of Second Language Acquisition.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of second language acquisition, covering a wide range of topics from theoretical perspectives to practical applications.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of second language acquisition, covering both theoretical and practical aspects. It valuable resource for students and teachers alike.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of second language acquisition, covering a wide range of topics from theoretical perspectives to practical applications.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of second language acquisition, covering both theoretical and practical aspects. It valuable resource for students and teachers alike.
Provides a practical guide to teaching English as a second or foreign language. It covers a wide range of topics, including lesson planning, classroom management, and assessment.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the major theories of second language acquisition. It valuable resource for students and researchers in the field.
Provides a practical guide to teaching English as a second or foreign language. It covers a wide range of topics, including lesson planning, classroom management, and assessment.
Provides a collection of readings on second language acquisition from a variety of perspectives.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the methods and methodologies used in second language acquisition research.
Provides a comparative overview of second language acquisition and the acquisition of first language. It valuable resource for students and researchers in the field.
Provides a practical guide to second language acquisition in the classroom.
Provides a practical guide to second language acquisition for teachers. It covers a wide range of topics, including the role of input, interaction, and feedback in language learning.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/ocgmvd/teach
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Rating
4.9
Effort
14 hours to complete
Via
Coursera
Institution
Arizona State University
Instructors
Dr. Shane Dixon
Dr. Justin Shewell
Jessica Cinco
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
한국어
日本語
हिंदी
Nederlands
Svenska
Pусский
Türkçe
Polski
Ελληνικά
українська мова
magyar nyelv
Bahasa Indonesia
ไทย
қазақша
اُردُو,
فارسی
বাংলা
tiếng Việt
پښتو
آذربایجان دیلی
This course belongs to a
collection
called
TESOL Certificate, Part 1: Teach English Now!. It's comprised of four courses:
- Teach English Now! Lesson Design and Assessment
- Teach English Now! Theories of Second Language Acquisition (viewing)
- Teach English Now! Foundational Principles
- Teach English Now! Capstone Project 1
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