English for Speakers of Other Languages Graduate Certificate

This course examines second language acquisition (SLA) theories and research as they apply to teaching and learning activities for English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). Key questions include: What is language? How are first and second languages learned? What are SLA theories and how do they compare to first language acquisition (FLA) theories? What are various disciplinary approaches to SLA research? What are key trends and findings in SLA research? How are SLA theories and research applicable to (ESOL) materials, methods and practices

This course is designed with the premise that Multilingual Learners function in more than one language and more than one culture; these experiences influence and impact their learning in the classroom. Students will investigate the value of understanding the backgrounds of  Multilingual Learners and how that understanding informs their teaching practices. Students will explore research-informed teaching methodologies that support learning in a second language and culture while fostering a respect for other languages and cultures.

This course will help participants understand the importance of equity, inclusion, and advocacy while fostering culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) family engagement. Students will identify how culture, cultural diversity, and cultural sensitivity apply to working with Multilingual Learners, their families, and their communities.

This course fosters course participants’ abilities to modify and adapt learning environments that support the diversity of linguistic, cultural, and social experiences that all students bring to the classroom. Through the examination of various ESOL curricula, materials, strategies, and assessments participants will look at language literacy skills, curriculum adaptation for language minorities, and design appropriate assessments connected to learning objectives for Multilingual Learners within the curriculum. Participants will develop a pedagogical understanding that effectively connects culturally situated knowledge to equitable learning experiences.

This course is designed to engage teachers of English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) in a practice of critical and reflective inquiry. Course participants will develop an understanding of what constitutes informed, creative and meaningful research inquiries. Finally, students will examine how current second language acquisition and bilingual education research frames effective inclusive instructional practice.