The Basics of TESL

What It Is

TESL, an acronym for Teaching English as a Second Language, reflects the teaching of English in
countries which utilise English as their common medium of conversation after their mother tongue.
In Malaysia, a degree in TESL grants you the eligibility to teach English as a second
language within the realm of education both private and government schools. For government
schools, it is crucial that your qualification is recognised by the Public Service Department (also known
as JPA). In most universities, TESL typically lands under the faculty of education.

#1. TEFL: Teaching English as a Foreign Language

For starters, TESL should not be confused with TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign
Language).
Skills required to teach English in another country to not native English speakers : China,
Korea, Japan and Thailand

#2. TESOL: Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

Both TEFL and TESL flexibility to teach English abroad as a foreign language (TEFL)
countries and English is not first language but is widely used (TESL).
TESL qualification emphasises on teaching English to individuals who utilise English
primarily a second language
#1. TESL Is NOT an Assessment of Your English Proficiency
How effective your teaching skills are
Passion and enthusiasm to teach.

#2. TESL Is NOT an Avenue for Learning English

Good grasp of language is essential before you decide to jump in the direction of TESL.

What Will You Study in a TESL Course?

A majority of the TESL courses offered in Malaysian universities are under the umbrella of faculty of
Education.

Subjects

Theories & Practices in Language Teaching

Introduction to Linguistics
Educational Sociology
English Language Training (ELT) and Methodology
Teaching Reading, Writing and Grammar
Language Testing & Evaluation
Curriculum Design
Teaching Practicum
(1) Youll be armed with transferable skills
From teaching to planning and lecturing to counselling, TESL graduates are what some may
term as the Jack or Jill of all trades.
People skills is already at the top of the list for TESL graduates, further refining their forte in
the field of communication. Other solid skills include leadership, interpersonal, project planning,
organisational, creative problem solving as well as decision making

(2) Its a fulfilling career

Career that couple tangible awards with the opportunity to play an important role in others lives
but thats exactly what teaching offers.
Make a difference. By escorting your knowledge and skills to teaching, you can carve a real
difference to peoples lives.

(3) Youll have lots of employment options

If teaching isnt up your alley after all, you can always dive into other job prospects (i.e.
technical writer, journalist, editor, interpreters, research analyst, biographer, advertising
copywriter, public relations executive, corporate communications manager and the list goes on).
You can even dabble with the development of textbooks, games, education applications as well
as administrative positions in higher education.
What Skills Do You Need for a TESL Course?

(1) Passion for teaching

Fuelled by passion and enthusiasm to spread knowledge

At the end of the day, its not just motivating students to learn, but also teaching them how to
learn
Meaningful and memorable
Caring for your craft, cultivating a passion for it and channelling that passion to your students.

(2) Patience is a virtue

Attentive listening, active questioning, being responsive

Its about pushing students to excel; at the same time, its about being human

(3) Problem-solving skills

Injecting a creative balance when students are uninterested or inattentive.

Need to deviate from lecture schedule make way for innocuous jokes

(4) Youre all ears

Good and active listener

Good listening skills are as essential as it is to cultivate empathy and understanding with the
students
A two-way process, listening skills pave way to a heightened sense of cultural sensitivity
towards students who are of different walks of life.

Career Options for a TESL Graduate

English Teacher
Advertising / Digital Copywriter
English Materials Developer
Journalist / Reporter
Corporate Communications Executive
Interpreter
Technical Writer