Teaching English as a Second Language Minor

Examine what language is and how it is used across different cultures and communities. Use findings from research on first and second language acquisition as well as the role of culture in learning to become an effective teacher and communicator.

Students in a classroom taking part in a classroom discussion

Why Study Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) at Albion?

Our TESL minor program is designed for both students who seek to acquire certification to teach in public schools in the U.S. and those who want to teach in other settings. You’ll gain hands-on experience in educational settings serving diverse ethnolinguistic children, youth and families. 

You’ll examine the relationships between research, teaching models and educational policy. This interdisciplinary approach aids our students in their intended majors and prepares them to work in diverse ethnolinguistic communities in the U.S. or abroad.

What Will You Learn as a Teaching English as a Second Language Minor?

You’ll examine the complexities of the English language and learn to effectively communicate and instruct others from diverse backgrounds.

You’ll learn how to assess language development, plan instruction, and look closely at the evidence of learning through clinical experience in schools and other educational settings.

You’ll teach English learners the content they are studying in school or need to communicate for work.

You’ll develop an understanding of how bias around culture, gender, and race can be perpetuated by the ways in which we often define and use English.

You’ll study the longstanding struggles for educational equity and access.

Preparing teachers to teach English learners is rewarding because they provide meaningful and practical leadership to the schools and communities they serve. They help open access for diverse individuals and groups to participate more fully in school, to pursue a wider array of college and career pathways, and to contribute more confidently to the communities where they live.

Dr. Kyle Shanton
Professor of Education