Organizing Theme

The College of Education prepares ethical and reflective professionals for quality service in diverse communities.

The TESOL program seeks to fulfill the mission of the College of Education, by infusing the TESOL curriculum with the following themes:

1. Ethical
   The TESOL program aims to help you discover the ethical dimensions in the choices you make as an ESOL teacher and professional. In the elective course TSOL 536 Language and Society for example, you will read about and discuss the implications of teaching a global language, or Language of Wider Communication, and explore the notions of World Englishes and language and power.   Top
2. Reflective
   Throughout the program, you are asked to reflect on your readings, past experiences (learning and acquiring language, feelings about grammar, etc.), experiences in class (e.g., discussions, guest speakers, micro-teaching, videos, activities), and experiences out-of-class (e.g., special projects, observations, field assignments, and internships). You are encouraged to carry this habit of reflection forward into your professional life.  Top
3. Professional
   The TESOL program is practitioner-oriented. You are continually challenged to link theory to practice, and practice to theory. In classes, you will often be required to do microteaching demonstrations, to create actual ESOL materials, unit plans, and syllabuses. The questions on the Comprehensive Exam also require you to make these connections. The graduate project also has a practical application.   Top
4. Service
   You are encouraged to become involved in our professional organizations as soon as possible. You will have opportunities to volunteer at TESOL and WAESOL sponsored events. You are also encouraged to volunteer in tutoring or assisting in an ESOL class in the community (See TESOL OBSERVATIONS, p. 41).   Top
5. Diverse Communities
   Students in the TESOL program are preparing to work with diverse communities, either by teaching abroad in another culture, or by working with a variety of ethnic groups within the United States. TESOL students are exposed to the ethnic diversity of this country during their observations and internships, as well as through participating in campus life and the activities of the International Student Center (206.296.6260).

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The TESOL program honors and celebrates diversity in all the TSOL courses. In particular, TSOL 536, Language and Society, includes readings and discussions of cultural, ethnic, gender, social class, sexual orientation, religion, race, age and ability. TESOL students complete their internships in a wide variety of settings, working with international students, immigrants, and / or refugees from a wide variety of cultures.

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