Introduction 

This programme is for practising and prospective teachers of English as an Additional Language who wish to further their professional competence and develop their understanding of the theoretical implications of aspects of their practice. The programme explores the skills necessary to be an effective EAL teacher and investigates the key theoretical issues which underlie good practice in TEAL. Participants are encouraged to draw on and apply topics to their own teaching and learning contexts.

The programme is offered part-time over two years (one module per term, October to June). Successful completion of the first year leads to the award of Postgraduate Certificate in TEAL and the Postgraduate Diploma is awarded upon successful completion of the two year programme. Those students who complete the Diploma successfully may choose to proceed to the MA TEAL by dissertation.

Year 1 Programme of Study

MODULE 1: INTRODUCTION TO TEAL

This module sets the context for the teaching of EAL in the UK and will address the distinctive and cross-disciplinary nature of EAL teaching and learning. A range of issues will be discussed, including the development of EAL teaching, current policy, initiatives and practice, EAL in relation to the needs of refugees and pupils with SEN, and the professional role of the EAL specialist teacher.

MODULE 2: SECOND LANGUAGE ACQUISITION AND LEARNING IN THE CLASSROOM

This module will address first and second language acquisition, and bilingualism. It will also focus on aspects of language learning such as motivation, cognitive style and individual learner differences, and investigate learning in the classroom context.

MODULE 3: THE STRUCTURE AND TEACHING OF ENGLISH IN CURRICULUM CONTEXTS

This module will introduce grammar, lexis and phonology of the English language. The module will explore the principles and practice of communicative language teaching as well as current approaches to English language teaching.

Year 2 Programme of Study

MODULE 4: WORKING IN MULTICULTURAL CONTEXTS

This module addresses issues of culture, language and identity and their relevance to the teaching and learning of bilingual and EAL learners.

MODULE 5: SECOND LANGUAGE TEACHING AND ASSESSMENT

This module will investigate approaches to the integration of language and content learning, literacy and genre theory as well as relevant issues in assessment of EAL learners.

MODULE 6: INDIVIDUAL PROJECT

This module will provide an opportunity for students to explore a topic of professional interest, such as the interface between Special Educational Needs and EAL learning, or the use of drama in working with refugee pupils.

MA IN TEAL

Students complete a dissertation of 12,000 words on a topic which is of particular interest to them and of relevance to their teaching and learning context.

Teaching and Assessment

The TEAL programme is taught by staff from the Language Studies Department at Canterbury Christ Church University. The programme is taught through lectures, seminars, workshops, and supervision.

Assessment is through an assignment of 4,000 words for each module. These include analysis of school and classroom practice, literature reviews, portfolios of practice, pupil observations and case studies, as well as a final individually-decided project. Assignments are closely linked to classroom practice and students will be offered individual and group tutorial support for all your assignments. The University provides study support on-line and on campus to help students.

How to Apply

The entry requirements are normally Higher Education Level 3 qualifications or Qualified Teacher Status and at least three years’ relevant teaching experience.

An application form and a specific prospectus are available from the University. Please write to the Department of English and Language Studies, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, Kent CT1 1QU.

Telephone: 01227 782472
or email: languagestudies@canterbury.ac.uk

The Department of English and Language Studies

At postgraduate level the Department offers Certificate, Diploma, Masters and Doctoral programmes for the English language teaching profession. We have an established international reputation in this area. Our teaching staff have experience in a wide variety of countries and contexts in both the public and private sectors. They regularly run programmes overseas and undertake consultancies, research, evaluation and inspection in curriculum development, and teacher education for the British Council, the Department for International Development, Cambridge ESOL, Trinity College and other agencies.

Overall, our concern is to develop professional expertise appropriate to a wide spectrum of teaching situations across the world. We are concerned with the day-to-day realities and the broader issues of English language education. We encourage interaction between students and staff at all levels, which involves a culture of research and discussion. Our Department welcomes educators and researchers from all over the world and offers first class tutorial and supervisory support within a friendly, supportive environment.

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