Bachelor in Teaching ESL
ESL (English as a Second Language) teachers instruct students from different cultures on how to read, write and speak English. These teachers may also work in adult literacy programs, teaching language and other basic skills to non-native speakers of English. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the employment of adult literacy teachers is expected to grow by 9% from 2012 to 2022. The demand is due to continued immigration to the U.S and hence requirement for adult education programs. If you have strong communication and interpersonal skills, you may look into becoming an ESL teacher. Becoming an ESL teacher can also be fun as you will get a chance to come across people from all over the world. But you must also be aware that instructing a language to non-native speakers can be quite challenging.
Featured Programs
What ESL Teachers Do
ESL teachers help students with practical vocabulary. They prepare lessons and evaluate assignments. In addition, they plan and teach lessons to help students gain the knowledge and skills they need to meet their goals. They may also focus on preparing students to take citizenship exams. ESL teachers may connect students to other resources in their community, such as job placement services as well.
Bachelor in Teaching ESL
Aspiring ESL teaches need to acquire the knowledge and skills to break into this field by earning a bachelor's degree. ESL teachers who want to teach at the primary or secondary school levels may have to get a teaching license as well. Some states require ESL teachers at the postsecondary level to hold a master's degree in education, ESL instruction or English. The bachelor's program may take 4 years to complete, depending on the route that students take. This program helps students know how adults learn languages. They also get instruction in communication skills, linguistics and theories of how people learn second languages. Though proficiency of a second language is not essential, it can be useful to instruct students in a better way.
Online Programs in Teaching ESL
In addition to traditional campus based schools, a number of online institutes also offer programs in ESL teaching. The online courses can be useful for those who are already working and want to switch careers or wish to improve their prospects. The online programs are particularly designed for working adults who are engaged in part-time or full-time jobs and earn valuable credentials without making drastic changes to their present routine.
Career Outlook
ESL teachers can work in elementary and secondary schools. They can also find jobs in junior colleges as well as state and local government. Most of these teachers work as part-time or adjunct faculty. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that these professionals earned a median salary of $ 48,590 in 2012. Many ESL teachers work in the mornings and evenings as this schedule is quite suitable for adult learners.