How to Start?

[jmm]

Hello All,

Since March, I have been a facilitator at a program called "Small Talk" at my local library--"Small Talk" is a program designed to help non-native Speakers improve their awareness of American Society and Culture.

I thoroughly enjoy the inter-action with my non-native participants and am seriously considering a career transition to teaching ESL.

I currently hold a Beachelor's Degree in American History and a Master's Degree in Information Systems.

How do you suggest that I start to make the transition to an ESL Instructor position?

Is there an association for ESL Instructors I can research?

Would I need just a certificate in ESL Instruction, or should I obtain another degree?

ANY and ALL input would be MOST appreciated! :)



Thanks,


Joseph

[Tdol]

You'd need an ESL training course, but make sure it's an accredited and recognised one- be careful there are cowboy courses out there.

[jmm]

THANKS TDOL, for your input.

But how do I do find an ACCEPTABLE ESL training class in my area?

I've heard a lot about these "on-line" training classes--are they any good?

[Tdol]

I live in the UK and we have courses validated by various organisations. I'd check first of all to see if they are validated by an external body. If not, then avoid them like the plague. Also be careful of courses tied to individual companies- they might get you your first job, but then no one else recognises them. I've never been tothe Sates so I have no idea who validates courses there.

[jmm]

THANKS Again, TDOL! :)

Can someone from America help out?


What external bodies validate ESL training programs here?


Thanks!

[Nahualli]

I wish I could help out, sir.. I'm sort of in the same boat.. I'd love to look into teaching ESL, not sure where to start out tho.

-Nah-

[Steven D]

I wish I could help out, sir.. I'm sort of in the same boat.. I'd love to look into teaching ESL, not sure where to start out tho.

-Nah-

Here's a place to start looking.

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&c...+world&spell=1

[Nahualli]

Here's a place to start looking.

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&c...+world&spell=1

Sorry I was running off at the mouth a little bit. I've looked in Google and stuff, I should have been a bit more specific. I was looking for a place to get certified. I'm thinking of trying UC Berkeley or something of the sort.

-Nah-

[jimsandifer]

At which level do you want to instruct? In Texas a certified public school teacher may take a state test to receive ESL certification without taking any special courses or training. Most teachers, however, will take a few college courses or will take a workshop sponsored by the state education department. The best way to get information about that would be to check with the ESL or Bilingual coordinator for one of the school districts where you live.

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