Teaching English Abroad: From Theory to Classroom Practice

This course surveys current methodology for modern language teaching. It will provide a solid introduction to language and the many aspects of language acquisition, such as the psychological components governing language, how language communicates from one mind to another, language use and socio-linguistic implication, the nature of human use of language and the cognitive processes involved in language learning. Students will consider second language acquisition (SLA) from an interdisciplinary approach, including linguistic, psychological, and sociocultural perspectives, in order to understand how a second language is acquired, what the learner of a second language needs to know, and why some learners are more successful than others.

After deconstructing the language acquisition process and introducing the founding theories regarding the teaching and learning process, students will have the opportunity to focus upon the practical tools necessary to promote authentic language learning. Not only will individual classes be dedicated to methodology for the four skills (reading, writing, listening and speaking), other more comprehensive topics will also be incorporated. These could include, but are not restricted to, the following: world Englishes, monolingualism and bilingualism, SLA in adults and children, formal and informal learning contexts, SLA in diverse socio-cultural settings, error correction and types of feedback, technology in the classroom, lesson planning, myths about language learning, etc.

In addition, students will volunteer every week as teaching assistants of English at local primary schools, high schools and adult learning centers. Students will observe local language classrooms, will relate classroom practice to theories of second language learning, and will reflect on cultural differences and their experience as teaching assistants in a different culture. Moreover, they will have the opportunity to apply their knowledge by facilitating activities in English classrooms and testing their own teaching materials designed during the course. The class will provide both a dynamic introduction to teaching methods and present innovative practical strategies for teaching modern languages.