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New degree in English language teaching
The University of the Sunshine Coast will extend its range of Education degrees next semester by introducing a Master of TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) Education.
This specialised program is aimed at those seeking promotion in the TESOL industry, which teaches English to people abroad and within Australia, including Indigenous children.
Program leader Dr Michael Carey said USC’s initial motivation for providing the new program was to help English language teachers from Indonesia develop their capacity as teachers.
“The program was set up as a strategic component of USC's International Project Group's (IPG) operations,” he said.
“The IPG is involved in various government-funded development projects in Indonesia, many of which involve developing the capacity of teachers to teach in English as a fundamental requirement.
“However, the program is also open to Australian domestic teachers who will gain rare insights into the role of TESOL in the foreign aid sector.
“This is because USC’s lecturers are currently engaged with international aid projects in our region, with a recent achievement of winning $1.5 million in AusAID funding.”
Dr Carey said a Master of TESOL Education was generally required for senior management positions in the TESOL industry, such as a director of studies at a private English language school, TAFE or the Australian Migrant Education Service.
“It is also a desirable qualification to have to gain a university job in TESOL in Australia and abroad,” he said.
Dr Carey said the niche program also would be an attractive option for teachers on the Sunshine Coast wanting to upgrade their skills.
“Another area for demand is for teachers of English as a Second Language (ESL) who work in the public school system with indigenous students,” he said.
“There is a current requirement for these teachers to upgrade their skills.”
— Terry Walsh