TESOL Meaning: Definition, Importance, and Certification Explained

Definition and Scope of TESOL

English language teachers should know about the TESOL definition to understand its scope. The meaning of TESOL is to teach English to the non-native speakers. In simple words, the TESOL certification aims to equip you with skills to teach English to non-native speakers.

TESOL also helps teachers understand how language and culture interact with one another. Many native English speakers know how to use grammar and vocabulary properly. However, they may not have the rules to explain the proper application of vocabulary and grammar.

By pursuing the TESOL training, you will be better equipped to teach non-native English speakers. The certification allows you to teach English in almost any country worldwide. Wherever you plan to work as an ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher, you will require the TESOL certification.

History and Evolution of TESOL

Besides understanding the TESOL certification meaning, you should know its two popular forms.

• TESOL as a professional organization
• TESOL as a training program to teach English to non-native speakers

Formed in 1966, TESOL is an independent and professional body representing teachers of English to speakers of other languages. Moreover, it is a globally recognized education association with more than 13000 members and 90 affiliates. These affiliates are present in more than 120 countries worldwide.

The mission of TESOL is to ensure excellence in English language teaching to non-native speakers. Here are the five organizations that were involved in forming TESOL.

• The Center for Applied Linguistics
• The Modern Language Association of America
• The Speech Association of America
• The Council of Teachers of English
• The Association of Foreign Student Affairs

The formation of TESOL as a certification course has been influenced by the domestic and international economic and political climate. The following methodologies of the TESOL certification have undergone change over the years by considering the needs of modern learners.

• The Grammar Translation Method
• The Audiolingual Method
• The Communicative Approach
• The Direct Method

The methodologies and syllabus of TESOL will continue to grow and develop in the future.

Importance and Benefits of TESOL

TESOL can increase your chances of landing a teaching job in the US or other countries. Getting TESOL certified means you have completed a minimum of 120 hours working through the course content. The 120-hour TESOL certificate has the most comprehensive curriculum. However, it is beneficial to obtain 150-hour or 250-hour TESOL certificate. You can compare the courses here.

Moreover, this course has a self-paced nature, and students aren’t needed to meet the weekly deadlines. Here are the benefits associated with the TESOL certification.

Key Concepts and Methodologies in TESOL Instruction

One should have a sound understanding of the TESOL course meaning. The critical methodologies in TESOL instruction are:

1. The Grammar Translation Method
   It refers to a way of teaching English derived from the classical method of teaching Greek.
2. The Communicative Approach
   In TESOL, a communicative approach is a teaching approach that highlights the importance of accurate communication for learning. With this methodology, the learners acquire the skills to communicate in English.
3. The Audiolingual Method
   It is another essential methodology in TESOL that emphasizes speaking and listening before writing and reading. The audiolingual method states that students should be taught English directly. Teachers shouldn’t use the native language of students in class.
4. The Direct Method
   In TESOL instruction, the direct method of teaching English implies the immediate use of the target language. With this method, the learner thinks and speaks using the same medium. Moreover, the direct approach emphasizes functional grammar.

Learners should know about the scope and TESOL certification definition properly. Here are the essential concepts in TESOL that every learner should know.

• Present Meaning before Form
  It is one of the most essential concepts of TESOL. The meanings and concepts should be presented through non-linguistic cues like pictures, videos, etc. Ideas can be more clearly understood by students compared to complex words and phrases.
• English should be Contextualized
  Usually, English used in and out of the classroom typically happens in a context. We communicate in English based on the situation. But an integral concept in TESOL is to contextualize the classroom for learners. A clear context acts as a landing pad for learners.
• A Greater Emphasis on the Pronunciation
  Knowing about the TESOL certificate meaning and scope will help you evolve as a teacher over time. It is essential to emphasize pronunciation rather than just the importance of the words. Non-native speakers need to learn the correct pronunciation to spell words correctly.

Career Opportunities and Paths in TESOL

TESOL and TEFL meaning are precisely the same. They both mean teaching English to non-native speakers of English. TEFL is commonly used when you want to teach English abroad in a foreign country.

On the other hand, TESOL refers to teaching English to non-native speakers in an English-speaking country. Nowadays, most TESOL programs combine theory with practical teaching experience. Here are the top career opportunities in TESOL that you should know.

Common Misconceptions about TESOL

The demand for English teachers abroad is pretty high. You shouldn’t be misled by the following TESOL misconceptions.

1. It is Hard to Find an English Teaching Job Abroad
   It is a primary misconception among the TESOL aspirants. But nowadays, there is a massive demand for English language education worldwide. With the right skills, you will always be able to find a job. ESL teachers are pretty popular in the world right now.
2. TESOL is not a High Paying Profession
   Aspirants should be aware of the meaning of TESOL in education. The salaries of the teachers vary from country to country and city to city. The salary always depends on the location of where you are teaching. If you want to make the most money teaching English abroad, the Middle East is the best option.
3. You have to Speak Another Language
   Most of the time, your students don’t expect you to know their language. This is because you are the English teacher. They know that your primary responsibility is to teach students in English. However, you should be aware of the introductory phrases of the students you’re preparing.

Conclusion

There are lots of benefits to knowing the full meaning of TESOL. As the world becomes more globalized, many jobs require their employees to speak English. In other words, there is a growing demand for ESL teachers worldwide. You should get TESOL certified and realize your dreams of teaching English to non-native speakers.