TESOL, M.S.
(Teaching English to Speakers of other Languages)

Learning Goals and Student Learning Outcomes

The following goals and learning outcomes have been established for students pursuing a degree in TESOL.

Achieve personal, civic, educational and career goals

• Understand and know the nature of language, English language systems, language learning and language in culture
• Can effectively plan and sequence English as a Second (ESL) or English as Foreign Language (EFL) instruction in the school setting based on their knowledge of culture, sociolinguistics, pedagogy, second language acquisition, assessment and curriculum
• Prepared for careers as teachers or resource specialists in the field of teaching ESL or EFL and have specializations in such areas as culture and language, testing and research, and professional education

Develop the habit of intellectual inquiry and communicate effectively

• Aware of philosophical and research foundations of second language acquisition and pedagogy
• Demonstrate English spoken and written language proficiency at a level commensurate with role as language models
• Studied at least two years of one foreign language or one year each of two different languages or possess the equivalent knowledge and skill
• Make judicious use of instructional resources and teaching strategies
• Use problem-solving and critical thinking in analyzing ESL/EFL instructional settings and materials with awareness of relevant language policy issues
• Self-directed learners who are able to demonstrate, articulate, reflect upon and evaluate what they have learned
• Can read and interpret research findings in the field

Use state-of-the-art technology

• Understand the importance of equitable access to state-of-the-art technology and use of technology to enhance professional growth
• Know how to integrate advances in information technology (such as e-mail, internet, and database research) in their teaching and research
• Plan purposeful learning activities for students which incorporate multi-media resources and equipment

Work effectively in multicultural environments

• Aware of and value the cultures of English-speaking peoples as well as other diverse cultures
• Intellectually sensitive and draw on the values, backgrounds, prior knowledge and interests of their diverse student populations
• Competent professionals who apply theoretical and methodological training to educational settings in the U.S. and abroad
• Hold a global perspective which seeks to uphold and safeguard human dignity

Work effectively in collaborative settings

• Participate in faculty/student activities, research and instructional programs
• Participate in cross-unit collaborations on campus and in the community through tutoring programs, writing programs, learning resource centers, intensive language programs, and community-based centers