Professional Development Program for ESL Teachers


 

Program Overview

The program delivered through collaboration of experts from the Department of Language and Literacy in Education and the UBC English Language Institute is designed to meet specific professional development needs of teachers of English as a second/additional language. Curriculum is structured to deepen teachers’ understanding and capacity to integrate in their practice cutting edge, research-informed, effective ESL pedagogies with the opportunity to enhance their own English proficiency in a supportive environment. The program includes a focus on intercultural communication and builds on the ‘Teaching English in English’ approach. Participants have opportunities to apply their learning in practicum situations with mentorship, guidance and feedback provided by program instructors. Organized cultural and social experiences complement the formal course offerings. A certificate of participation is awarded upon successful completion of the program.

Program Highlights

  • Enhances teachers’ ability to teach in English through more sophisticated skills and increased confidence in oral and aural English communication within the context of current English language pedagogy
  • Introduces innovative teaching techniques and strategies for listening, speaking, reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary and language assessment
  • Engages teachers to think critically through a variety of activities such as group discussions, mini oral-presentations, role-plays, debates, forums, field-trips, and guest speaker presentations/workshops
  • Provides opportunities to interact with local K-12 school teachers and includes a practicum component delivering instruction in authentic ESL classrooms
  • Incorporates social and cultural activities that are vital to student language development

Program Format

The program includes lectures, workshops, school visits and practicum experiences. An optional online learning component can also be included.

Duration and Fees

The program is typically delivered over a 10-week period on UBC Vancouver campus with an optional follow up on-line extension. The length of the program can be tailored to the needs of the group. The cost for the academic program is based on a cohort model. Accommodation (including a home stay providing additional English language immersion), medical insurance, local transportation and supplemental cultural visits can be arranged and included in the package.