What will I learn on this module?
This module will introduce you to current TESOL methodology, trace its development and map its possible future. You will be exposed to current debates in the TESOL profession including issues around the use of native and non-native English teachers. The module also has practicum sessions which require you put theory into practice. The experience that you gain will be of both intellectual and practical value for career development and your potential employment in the TESOL field.
The areas of grammar, pronunciation and lexis, receptive and productive skills and lesson planning will also be considered. You will gain wide ranging experience in planning appropriate lessons and delivering them during the practicum sessions. You will also learn through observing others in practice as well as gain useful feedback from your classmates.
Through engaging in the module, you will be expected to develop, 1) familiarity with a variety of methods and approaches, 2) awareness of appropriate methodology for delivering language lessons, 3) practical skill in using appropriate methodology in the delivery of lessons.
At the end of this module, you will 1) have further experience of TESOL methodology, 2) be able to take a critical stance with regard to classroom practice, 3) have experience of planning and delivering appropriate lessons, and be able to justify the pedagogical choices made.
How will I learn on this module?
The module will be delivered through a combination of interactive lectures and practical workshops. Key themes and concepts will be introduced in lectures, supported by in-class discussions, guided-debates, and further exploration activities. There will also be practical workshops which will help you prepare for the teaching practices. All subject areas and theoretical debates within the module will be supported by reference to relevant literature, which you will read outside of class to further develop your knowledge and understanding of the field.
In addition to learning during taught hours, you will undertake both directed and independent learning. Directed learning will generally take the form of suggested weekly readings and preparation for in-class discussions where you will be expected to contribute. Practicums will allow you to put what you learnt into practice. They will also offer you a chance to gain feedback from your module tutor and classmates. These combine to contribute to your development of intellectual, transferable and practical skills. Independent learning will generally take the form of further reading and investigation, the consolidation of lecture notes, and revision/preparation for the assessment.
All learning materials, tasks and readings will be posted on the eLP (e-learning portal) to facilitate full participation in the module. Additionally, you will receive formative feedback on your ideas and understandings throughout the module. The module’s summative assessments will provide you a chance to reflect on your development as a trainee teacher as well as allow you to engage with more theoretical discussions explored in the module.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
The module aims to help you explore and engage with fundamental concepts and current debates relevant to the TESOL field. It also provides you with a platform to put theories into practice by conducting your own teaching. Lectures and workshops will hence develop both your academic knowledge as well as practical experience of planning and delivering a language lesson. Your academic development is also facilitated through engagement with the weekly readings, and also discussing theoretical and practical concerns with your tutor and peers.
The module handbook provides details of lectures, workshops, reading lists and assessment criteria; lecture materials are available on the eLP (see above). The module tutor will be available in lectures and workshops, in ‘Feedback and consultation hours’ (i.e. ‘office hours’) and on email, to discuss any queries or concerns you have regarding any aspect of the module. Formative feedback will be given in an on-going basis throughout in-class activities and workshops.
In addition, you have a designated Guidance Tutor throughout the entire duration of your studies. The academic side of the Guidance Tutor’s role includes monitoring your ongoing academic progress, helping you to develop self-reflection skills necessary for continuous academic development, and directing you to further available services which can help them with their academic skills (e.g. the Library’s Skills Plus). You are advised to see your Guidance Tutor at least twice each semester to review your academic progress. Additional language support is also available from the ESAP programme offered by the language centre.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. A thorough working knowledge of the methods and approaches to teaching and learning in various TESOL contexts for the key language skills
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
2. The awareness of appropriate methodologies for delivering language lessons
3. The skills necessary to plan, deliver and reflect on a language lesson
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
4. Demonstrate intellectual openness to complementary approaches and methods to language learning and teaching as well as the cultural awareness in evaluating diverse teaching and learning experiences
5. Skills of conforming to relevant standards of good academic practice
How will I be assessed?
Formative assessment
You will present your ideas during in-class discussions and deliver sample lessons in workshops. You will receive formative feedback from the module tutor and peers on any perspectives and practical ideas that you choose to share. Such formative feedback will enable you to test and form your own understanding the principles and practicalities of teaching and learning.
Formative assessment addresses MLOs 1,2,3 and 4
Summative (graded) Assessments
1. 2000-word portfolio
You will compile a portfolio that details the design of your lesson plans for the practicum. Each accompanied by a rationale for the language/teaching choices made, drawing on the discussions in class and your own subsequent reflections.
2. 2000-word essay
You will write an essay that outlines your own language learning experience in light of your growing awareness of methodology during the course. In particular, you can discuss how your knowledge about TESOL classroom enables you to evaluate the classroom experience you have/ had as a learner. You may also consider how different methodologies employed by the other teacher(s) strike a chord with your belief about language teaching, or likewise how they conflict with your understanding of language teaching and learning.
The portfolio and essay assessments will be part of the learning process, and address all five MLOS.
Feedback will be provided using the Programme template and comments on the script.
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
Professional practice of TESOL will provide you with a platform to explore and engage with concepts fundamental to the TESOL profession. You will have the opportunity to plan and practise delivering your own language lesson in a supportive environment. Through its interactive mode of delivery, the module will enable you to develop theoretical, practical and transferrable skills for your future employment. Having a sound understanding of the theoretical basis and historical development of the TESOL field as well as practical teaching experience will strengthen your portfolio and give you an edge in the competitive market.
The knowledge, practical and transferrable skills, and critical thinking you will acquire through the module will allow you to develop the confidence you need to succeed in future employment. It will also prepare you for further studies in the field of TESOL, including the pursuit of a PhD.
Course info
Credits 20
Level of Study Postgraduate
Mode of Study 2 years Part Time
1 other options available
Department Humanities
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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