iTESOL Certificate
Course details
The iTESOL Certificate is our introductory online course suitable for teaching English in many countries,
community English teaching, and volunteer posts. The iTESOL course includes a 60 hour component on classroom teaching methods, a Grammar unit and two (2) electives (Teaching English to Adults and Teaching English to Children).
If you want to know more about teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) and prefer the option of learning online then this course is for you. The course can also be suitable for existing teachers wanting to update their knowledge on the communicative approach.
If you are a non native English speaking teacher or trainee interested in undertaking the University of Cambridge ESOL Teaching Knowledge Test (TKT) our iTESOL course will help you because our testing question design follows the same range as the TKT test and the course also covers a similar range of knowledge and language.
NOTE: There can be issues accessing the video in the iTESOL course. Here is one of the video files from the course, as a direct link from Vimeo, which is our video server. If you can see this video then there is no problem for you. In some countries, such as China, the government blocks Vimeo – in such cases you may need to set up a Virtual Private Network (VPN) account. Also, employers and libraries may block video servers.
Introduction to TESOL component
The 60hr online Introduction to TESOL component covers the basic 'how to' aspects of teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) using the communicative approach. Learning is gained as you read and interact with the on-line material (including video segments from our in-class training) and receive instant feedback - if you pick the wrong answer, we'll tell you why before you have another attempt. The introduction to TESOL component culminates in an online exam once you have been through the on-line work with the expected score results.
The communicative approach emphasises language learning for the purposes of use in the real world, whether that be for listening, speaking, reading, or writing. The introduction to TESOL component shows you how to provide optimum opportunities for interaction and communication in the classroom. The communicative approach is currently recognised as the most appropriate way of promoting students’ language learning and is embedded in TESOL course book design. Course books by the major publishers are commonly used by language schools. The communicative approach also lends itself to teachers establishing their own teaching style.
Grammar course
The 20 hour online Grammar course provides a solid understanding of the basics of English grammar as it applies to ESOL learners, you will be much better equipped to present useful language learning tools to your students. Throw away your fears of grammar - this course is a refreshing, user-friendly introduction to the basics! The Grammar course culminates in an online exam once you have been through the on-line work.
The most common areas for new TESOL teachers is to teach General English classes to Adults and/or Children. We prepare you for these scenarios:
Teaching English for Adults unit
The 20 hour online Teaching English for Adults unit helps prepare you to meet the unique challenges of teaching adults. Areas covered include language relevance, motivation and group dynamics within the classroom. To ensure the students are continually engaged, the ESOL teacher must implement certain strategies and ideas to maintain student interest and facilitate continued language improvement. Teach International's Teaching English to Adults Elective is designed to provide you with information, skills and practical ideas to help you understand the language levels of your adult learners, and create a positive and productive learning environment. The Teaching English for Adults elective culminates in an online exam once you have been through the on-line work.
Teaching English for Children unit
The 20 hour online Teaching English for Children unit helps prepare you to meet the unique challenges of teaching children. The large majority of ESOL Teachers are introduced to the children's classroom at some point during their careers. Children worldwide have seemingly limitless energy; with the necessary skills and tools, this energy can be channeled and utilized productively within the ESOL classroom. Teach International's Teaching English to Children Elective focuses on the methodology and strategies required to facilitate a successful English language environment. You will be introduced to many practical and fun ideas for your children's classroom. The Teaching English for Children elective culminates in an online exam once you have been through the on-line work.
