TESOL Certificate, Part 2: Teach English Now! Specialization Course Reviews

The course is the second part of the TESOL Certificate program and builds upon the foundational knowledge acquired in Part 1.

The course covers key topics such as lesson planning, classroom management, and assessment. The specialization consists of four courses.

Throughout the course, students will learn how to create engaging and effective lesson plans that address the needs of English language learners. The course also covers practical techniques for managing classrooms and promoting student engagement, as well as strategies for assessing student progress and providing feedback.

The course is structured as a series of video lectures and interactive activities, with opportunities for students to practice teaching and receive feedback from peers and instructors. By the end of the course, students should have a solid understanding of effective English language teaching practices and be able to apply these concepts in real-world classroom settings.

This course is suitable for anyone interested in teaching English as a second language, whether they are new to teaching or have some prior experience. It is also suitable for professionals who work with English language learners, such as tutors or language program administrators. The course is part of the TESOL Certificate program, which provides a comprehensive training program for aspiring English language teachers.

Course Content:

This specialization is the second of two specializations that make up the TESOL Certificate from Arizona State University. This Specialization builds on the theories learned in TESOL Certificate, Part 1: Teach English Now! Foundational Principles. It covers the design and implementation of reading and writing, listening and speaking, and technology enriched activities, as well as a teaching practicum. In the final Capstone Project, developed by international educators and TESOL specialists at ASU’s Global Launch, you’ll apply the skills you learned by demonstrating your ability to teach through video recordings and by reflecting on your own and others’ teaching. When you complete both Specializations, you will submit your work for expert review to receive your ASU 150-hour TESOL Certificate, in addition to your Coursera certificates.

The TESOL Certificate, Part 2: Teach English Now! Specialization course on Coursera, authored by Jessica Cinco, consists of 4 course series. Here is a breakdown of the course structure:

Course 1: Teach English Now! Second Language Reading, Writing, and Grammar

In this course, you will learn ideas for teaching reading and writing courses, and how to include grammar instruction within them. Learn how to help students with differing types of reading problems and how to implement both intensive and extensive reading strategies. Learn strategies to engage students in the stages of writing--pre-writing, writing, and post-writing. Find out about different writing problems that students may encounter. Incorporate grammar through the use of noticing and input enhancement.

There are 6 modules in this course:

Module 1: Overcoming Reading Difficulties: Dorothy in the Land of Oz

In this module, learners are introduced to some of the basic principles of reading, as well as three basic types of reading problems common in TESOL. Learners will gain insight into how to overcome these basic types of reading problems through a careful understanding of principles such as prediction, involvement, and authenticity.

Module 2: Reading Strategies: The Tortoise and the Hare

In this module, learners are introduced to two different types of reading strategies: extensive and intensive. Strategies for intensive reading, such as skimming and scanning, are introduced. Strategies for extensive reading, such as reading for pleasure and reading for connection are also discussed.

Module 3: Overcoming Writing Difficulties: Hansel and Gretel, or How to Literally Get Out of a Jam

In this module, learners are introduced to the writing process, with attention paid to pre-writing, writing, and post-writing activities. Learners also explore the concepts of recursion and appropriation.

Module 4: Writing Techniques: Aladdin and the 1,000 Arabian Nights

In this module, learners are given the opportunity to learn about strategies from good writers, in particular, how good writing is generated from reading, speaking, and critical thinking. Learners are also introduced to the six traits of writing, and the need to consider both voice and audience.

Module 5: The Princess and the Pea

In this module, learners are given the opportunity to think about how to integrate grammar into a reading and writing class. Teachers are taught the principle of noticing, and the importance of noticing for both learner and instructor. Teachers are also taught about how to enhance input in order to help students notice, and hopefully, acquire language.

Module 6: Assessment

Watch the final review video to verify your understanding of the course material. Then proceed to the final checkpoint quiz.

• Video 1: Course Summary Video•10 minutes•Preview module

Course 2: Teach English Now! Second Language Listening, Speaking, and Pronunciation

In this course, you will be introduced to some of the challenges of teaching and learning listening and speaking, such as paralinguistics, performance variables, reduced and regional forms, and differing types of oral discourse. Don't worry--you'll learn what those mean, too! Then you'll learn how to ease the acquisition of listening and speaking for your students. The course also highlights the powerful opportunity to include pronunciation in listening and speaking classes and offers strategies to incorporate pronunciation activities.

There are 6 modules in this course:

Module 1: Basic Principles of Listening

In this module, learners are introduced to some of the fundamental elements of listening, including features that make listening a difficult chore for language learners. Learners are also introduced to basic listening strategies.

Module 2: Module 2: Listening Strategies

In this module, learners are introduced to strategies that students can use to simplify listening and take control of improving their listing skills. Learners are also introduced to strategies teachers can use to make second language listening easier for their students.

Module 3: Basic Principles of Speaking

In this module, learners are introduced to various cognitive, social and affective demands that make speaking difficult for second language learners. Struggles that teachers face when providing speaking instruction are also discussed.

Module 4: Speaking Strategies

In this module, learners are introduced to speaking strategies to help language learners take control of their own learning Also, learners are also instructional strategies for speaking that teachers can use in their lessons.

Module 5: Teaching Pronunciation

In this module, learners are given the opportunity to think about how to integrate pronunciation into a listening and speaking class. Learners are made aware pronunciation barriers, strategies for teaching pronunciation and how to recycle other teaching strategies and apply them to pronunciation instruction.

Module 6: Assessment

Learners watch the final review video to verify their understanding of the course material. Then, they will proceed to the final checkpoint quiz and peer review assignment.

• Video 1: Course Summary Video•10 minutes•Preview module

Course 3: Teach English Now! Technology Enriched Teaching

This course focuses on the key concepts you need in order to effectively integrate technology into your teaching, without letting it overshadow language learning. Discover current and future trends in educational technology, along with strategies for implementing these trends in the classroom and beyond. As technology is continually evolving, learn how to keep up on current technological applications through professional development networks and training opportunities.

There are 6 modules in this course:

Module 1: Module 1: Overcoming Your Fears of Using Technology

In this module, learners are introduced to a young teacher who is hesitant to incorporate technology into the classroom. On his journey, we will be introduced to reasons teachers avoid technology as well as suggestions for how to overcome some common technology difficulties. In particular, learners will be introduced to the concepts of alignment, learner control, and the importance of being outcomes driven.

Module 2: Module 2: Enhancing Lesson Planning Using Technology

In this module, our young teacher learns about creating a learning management system (LMS) to assist him in the classroom. We are also introduced to nine different categories of technology as well as 6 events of instruction. Events of instruction are introduced to help teachers recognize the need to examine different technologies according to how they can be useful during the lesson planning process.

Module 3: Module 3: Engaging Students Using Technology

In this module, we are introduced to the concept of digital nativity, and students that are both digital natives and non-natives. Throughout the module, our young teacher is given strategies to engage both types of learners.

Module 4: Module 4: Transforming the Classroom Using Technology

In this module, learners are introduced to the interaction between teaching, content, and technology, using the acronym TPACK. Through this acronym, teachers are invited to recognize the ways in which different types of knowledge work together. We are also introduced to an additional acronym: SAMR. This acronym invites teachers to consider how essential the tool is to achieving learning outcomes, and whether it simply replaces an older type of technology, or if it transforms the learning process itself.

Module 5: Module 5: Focusing on Your Training

In this module, our young teacher encounters a final test in the form of marketers that attempt to push technology tools on him and his classroom. We give some final advice about how to deal with the massive numbers of tools that are currently available, and what to do to ensure that the tools that are chosen will truly benefit students.

Module 6: Module 6: Final Review

Each of the concepts covered in Modules 1 - 5 is summarized in the course summary video. Learners watch the video to verify their understanding of the course material. Then, they will proceed to the final checkpoint quiz and peer review assignment.

• Video 1: Course Summary•12 minutes•Preview module

Course 4: Teach English Now! Capstone Project 2

In the final Capstone Project, you will apply the skills you learned by doing practice teaching. You will build on your assignments from the previous courses to refine your lesson plans and video-tape yourself presenting the lesson. You will submit a total of ten videos. If you have completed Teach English Now! Part 1 and Teach English Now! Part 2, you will submit your work for expert review to receive your ASU 150-hour TESOL Certificate from ASU, in addition to your Coursera certificates.

There are 5 modules in this course:

Module 1: Module 1: Planning and Teaching Reading/Writing Lessons

Welcome to Module 1 of the Capstone 2 Project for Teach English Now!: Part 2. We know that you have worked hard to get to this point and are anxious to apply all you have learned. In the first module of this course, you will be planning and teaching two technology enriched reading/writing lessons.

Module 2: Module 2: Planning and Teaching Listening/Speaking Lessons

In Module 2, you'll be planning and teaching two technology enriched listening/speaking lessons.

Module 3: Module 3: Planning and Teaching Grammar and Pronunciation Lessons

In Module 3, you'll be planning and teaching grammar and pronunciation lessons. First, you'll create your lesson plans and then you'll film your micro teaching videos.

Module 4: Module 4: Teacher Toolbox

In Lesson 1 of Module 4, participants share a teaching tip with each other in order to build or add to an existing "teacher toolbox." NOTE: All participants should complete Lesson 1. The assignments in Lesson 2 of Module 4 must be completed by those who have not completed Specialization 1.

Module 5: Module 5: End of Course Summary and Information

In Module 5, you'll create and submit your digital teaching portfolio for expert review.

Reviews:

As a former student of the TESOL Certificate, Part 2: Teach English Now! Specialization course, I can provide more detail on why I believe this is an outstanding course for anyone interested in teaching English language learners.

First and foremost, the course is well-designed, with a logical sequence of topics that build upon each other. The course starts by introducing the basic principles of TESOL, such as language learning theories, teaching methodology, and classroom management. It then progresses to more specific topics, such as teaching reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Each topic is covered in-depth, with relevant examples and practical strategies provided.

Another strength of the course is the quality of the instructional materials. The video lectures are engaging, informative, and easy to follow, and the course readings are well-researched and relevant. The assignments are challenging, but manageable, and provide opportunities for participants to apply what they have learned in a practical context.

In addition to the high-quality instructional materials, the course also offers valuable opportunities for interaction and feedback. Participants are encouraged to engage in discussions with their peers and instructors, and to provide and receive feedback on their assignments. This creates a supportive and collaborative learning environment that fosters growth and development.

Finally, the expertise and experience of the course author, Jessica Cinco, is a significant asset to the course. Ms. Cinco has an extensive background in TESOL, with over a decade of experience teaching English language learners around the world. Her expertise and passion for language teaching are evident in the course content, and she is very responsive to participant questions and concerns.

Overall, I highly recommend the TESOL Certificate, Part 2: Teach English Now! Specialization course to anyone interested in teaching English language learners. The course provides a comprehensive and practical introduction to TESOL, with a focus on evidence-based teaching practices and learner-centeredness. It is an excellent investment in professional development for anyone pursuing a career in language education.

At the time, the course has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on over 2,218 ratings.

What you'll learn:

Upon completing the TESOL Certificate, Part 2: Teach English Now! Specialization course on Coursera, authored by Jessica Cinco, students will acquire a range of skills and knowledge to become effective English language teachers. Some of the key skills and competencies that students will develop through the course include:

1. Lesson planning and curriculum design: Students will be able to design effective lesson plans and curriculum sequences based on learning objectives and outcomes.

2. Classroom management: Students will learn how to create a positive and engaging learning environment, manage classroom dynamics, and address student behavior issues.

3. Teaching language skills: Students will be able to teach reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills using a variety of instructional techniques and materials.

4. Teaching language systems: Students will be able to teach grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation using effective teaching strategies and techniques.

5. Assessment and evaluation: Students will learn how to assess and evaluate student learning and provide constructive feedback to students.

6. Cultural competence: Students will develop an understanding of cultural differences and how they can impact language teaching and learning.

Overall, students who complete this course will be well-prepared to teach English language learners in a variety of contexts, including schools, language centers, and community organizations. They will also be able to apply their knowledge and skills to design effective lesson plans and curricula that meet the needs of diverse student populations.

Author:

Jessica Cinco is an accomplished language educator and expert in the field of TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). She has over a decade of experience teaching English language learners of all ages and proficiency levels in a range of settings, including language schools, universities, and community organizations.

She holds a Master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Melbourne and a Bachelor's degree in English from the University of the Philippines. Her academic training and research have focused on language acquisition, teacher training, and curriculum design. Her research has been published in reputable academic journals and she has presented at international conferences on language education.

Jessica's teaching philosophy is informed by her belief that language learning should be engaging, meaningful, and relevant to the lives and goals of learners. Her approach to language teaching emphasizes learner-centeredness, communicative competence, and task-based learning. She is a proponent of evidence-based teaching practices and regularly incorporates the latest research and pedagogical techniques into her teaching.

As the author of the TESOL Certificate, Part 2: Teach English Now! Specialization course on Coursera, Jessica has demonstrated her expertise in language teaching and curriculum design. The course is highly regarded for its practical approach and thorough coverage of essential TESOL topics, including lesson planning, classroom management, teaching language skills and systems, assessment, and cultural competence.

Overall, Jessica Cinco is a highly respected and accomplished language educator whose extensive experience, academic training, and expertise in TESOL make her an invaluable resource for anyone interested in teaching English language learners.

Requirements:

The TESOL Certificate, Part 2: Teach English Now! Specialization course on Coursera, authored by Jessica Cinco, has several requirements for participants to successfully complete the course:

1. Access to a computer with a stable internet connection: Participants should have access to a computer and a reliable internet connection to complete the course assignments and watch video lectures.

2. Intermediate level of English proficiency: The course is designed for non-native English speakers who have an intermediate level of English proficiency or higher.

3. Completion of Part 1 of the TESOL Certificate: Participants must have completed Part 1 of the TESOL Certificate course on Coursera before enrolling in Part 2.

4. Commitment to completing the course: Participants are expected to devote approximately 5-7 hours per week to complete the course materials and assignments.

5. Willingness to engage in peer feedback: Participants will be required to give and receive feedback from their peers on their assignments.

6. Access to a teaching context: Participants are encouraged to have access to a teaching context, such as a classroom or language tutoring opportunity, to practice and apply their learning.

Overall, the TESOL Certificate, Part 2: Teach English Now! Specialization course has specific requirements that ensure participants have the necessary skills and resources to successfully complete the course and become effective English language teachers.