Site Search | American English

The Psychic Rewards of Teaching: An Interview with James E. Alatis

In: English Teaching Forum 2004, Volume 42, Issue 2 Format(s): Text

Dr. James Alatis answers questions about teaching English as a profession, establishing the international association TESOL, and his strong belief that linguistics and language teaching will change the world. The son of Greek immigrants, Alatis shares how his early interest in languages led him to study linguistics. Regarded as "the father of TESOL," Alatis believes the best linguistics is interdisciplinary. According to Alatis, the future of TESOL will involve more audiovisual and online material, all subjects taught by ESL teachers, and more concern for cultures of other countries.

Conditions for Teacher Research

In: English Teaching Forum 2006, Volume 44, Number 4 Format(s): Text

The article starts by defining teacher research and a summary of its benefits. In reviewing teacher research in the field of ELT, the author points out that such research is not enough. The author then suggests ten conditions that would increase the incidence of teacher research. Additional questions for consideration are suggested at the end that may help promote teacher research.

Shall We Dance: Team Teaching as Supervision in the English Language Classroom

In: English Teaching Forum 2005, Volume 43, Number 4 Format(s): Text

This article compares team teaching to a dance in which leadership shifts from partner to partner. It argues for the use of team teaching as an effective and motivating means of professional development. The author shares his experience in team teaching and offers a list of steps that can be used to establish and maintain team teaching that is effective for both the professionals and their students, such as when to involve students and when to trade roles.

Center for Applied Linguistics

Format(s): Text, Website, Image / Poster / Maps

The Center for Applied Linguistics offers everything from information on immersion programs to the newest research and guidance on best practices for teachers. Visit regularly to keep up to date on research-based strategies and practical hands-on tools to help develop effective classroom activities.

Video Recording as a Stimulus for Reflection in Pre-Service EFL Teacher Training

In: English Teaching Forum 2009, Volume 47, Number 2 Format(s): Text

All teachers should reflect on their teaching. In this article, the author argues for using video recording as a tool for critical reflection. She states that recording and review should be used even at the early stages of pre-service teacher training in microteaching sessions. She suggests that after the teaching is completed, teachers view the tape multiple times by themselves, then with a peer, and finally with a supervisor. Outcomes for this training include increased self-awareness, role shift from actor to director, and increased continuity.

Teaching English for and with Communities

In: English Teaching Forum 2008, Volume 46, Number 3 Format(s): Text

This article is a reflection of English teaching in Chiclayo, Peru, at a not-for-profit cultural center. It starts with a brief explanation of the authors’ desire to help transform the community through English teaching. The article then explains the concept of civic education and offers a three-tiered approach that has been designed to help the community: Chiclayo reads, summer institute for k-12 English teachers, and the advanced curriculum. The implementation and results of the projects are discussed.

Reflective Teacher Observation Model for In-Service Teacher Trainees

In: English Teaching Forum 2007, Volume 45, Number 1 Format(s): Text

This article proposes the Teacher Observation Programme for in-service teacher trainees. The program is reflective, collaborative, and builds confidence. It enables teachers to grow in their ability to self-evaluate. Trainees who have made decisions about their own observation, who have created and used their own observational tools, and who have used reflective lesson plans will be better equipped to do action research. Some of the key components of the program are needs assessment, building rapport, summative assessment and post-observational feedback.

Curriculum Revisions in Teacher Education during COVID-19: The Critical Reflections of Two Professors

In: English Teaching Forum 2023, Volume 61, Number 1 Format(s): Text

Elena King and Molly Riddle narrate the decision-making processes they applied as they revised their curricula for in-service and licensure-candidate teachers during the pandemic. The authors offer examples of how to use the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPCK) framework and provide key takeaways from their experience that can be applied productively in a variety of contexts.

Networking: Making Connections that Last

In: American English Webinars Format(s): Text, Video

This webinar discusses how we can become more connected to our colleagues, both near and far.

Lesson Planning 101: Mapping Activities for a Clear Path to Learning