Endorsement in ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) (Graduate Non-Degree)
Hours: 15 Online
About
Fort Hays State University designed the Endorsement in ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) (Graduate Non-Degree) program to equip students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills for effectively teaching English language learners (ELLs). The 15-credit program prepares students to pass the Praxis 5362 exam (a passing score on the Praxis 5362 is required to add the endorsement to a teaching license in most states). It provides real-world application opportunities through various coursework and practicum experiences.
With content focused on cultural diversity, linguistics, assessment, and teaching methods, students gain a comprehensive understanding essential for success in diverse K-12 educational environments. Each course integrates assignments and case studies that allow students to engage with actual classroom scenarios, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the challenges of teaching ELLs.
Why pursue an Endorsement in ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) at Fort Hays State University?
Pursuing an Endorsement in ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) (Graduate Non-Degree) at Fort Hays State University offers a unique blend of theoretical and practical learning experiences tailored to the needs of educators working with English language learners.
Another significant advantage is the program's flexibility. All courses are asynchronous, and most are offered as 8-week sessions throughout the year, to be taken in any order. Additionally, the program's use of open educational resources (OER) means that students always learn from the most current materials without the high cost of traditional textbooks. The Endorsement in ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) (Graduate Non-Degree) commitment to affordability and relevance makes it an excellent choice for educators looking to specialize in teaching ELLs.
Who is this program for?
The Endorsement in ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) (Graduate Non-Degree) program at Fort Hays State University is ideal for diverse individuals passionate about teaching English language learners (ELLs) and looking to advance their professional skills. This program is tailored for those who already have advanced English proficiency, as it focuses on improving teaching expertise rather than increasing participants’ English proficiency. It is particularly well-suited for:
- Current teachers seeking ESOL specialization
- Aspiring ESOL educators
- Educational administrators
- Educators seeking to deepen their understanding of teaching students identified by various terms, including ESL (English as a Second Language), ENL (English as a New Language), ELL (English Language Learner), EL (English Learner), EAL (English as an Additional Language), EIL (English as an International Language), emergent bilingual, multilingual learner, dual language learner, plurilingual learner, culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) learner, and the now outdated term, limited English proficiency (LEP)
- Professionals interested in cultural diversity and language teaching
- Individuals looking to enhance their teaching credentials
Learning Outcomes
The Endorsement in ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) (Graduate Non-Degree) program at Fort Hays State University aims to produce exceptionally well-prepared educators to meet the needs of English language learners. The program's comprehensive curriculum ensures that graduates deeply understand linguistic and cultural diversity, assessment techniques, and contemporary teaching methods. Students will learn the impact of legal decisions and state and/or national legislation on current educational practices and will be able to use their knowledge to make informed recommendations for the educational needs of ELL students and their families. Specific courses emphasize the following:
Culturally Responsive Teaching Practices
Graduates will demonstrate the ability to design and implement instruction that reflects an understanding of cultural diversity and supports the academic success of English language learners (ELLs) in K–12 settings.
Linguistic Knowledge
Students will gain a robust foundation in linguistics, enabling them to understand the structure and function of language. Understanding is essential for effectively teaching English language learners and helping them navigate the complexities of language acquisition and usage.
Assessment Skills
The program emphasizes formal and informal assessment techniques, preparing graduates to evaluate ELL students' progress and proficiency accurately. It includes understanding the theoretical underpinnings of various assessments and being able to apply and interpret these tools in practical educational settings.
Teaching Methods
The program equips graduates with various teaching methods and materials tailored to the needs of ELLs. It includes historical and contemporary approaches to language teaching, allowing educators to choose and adapt methods that best suit their students' needs and learning contexts.
Real-World Applications
Each course within the program includes practical assignments and case studies that simulate actual teaching scenarios. These allow students to apply their theoretical knowledge in meaningful ways. An interactive approach helps students build a robust set of skills that are directly transferable to their teaching careers.
Experience is invaluable, allowing students to work with English language learners in diverse educational settings. By engaging in real-world teaching and research, students gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and strategies of teaching ELLs, making them highly effective and adaptable educators.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
The curriculum is updated continuously to reflect new research findings and best practices in the field. Using open educational resources (OER) facilitates a commitment to current knowledge by allowing the inclusion of the most recent and relevant materials without the constraints of traditional textbooks.
The program also emphasizes contemporary teaching methods and assessment techniques, equipping graduates with cutting-edge strategies to enhance student learning. By integrating these latest advancements into the curriculum, FHSU prepares its students to be innovative and effective educators in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.
Practical Activities
The program includes a variety of experiential learning opportunities, such as the ESOL 885 Practicum, where students spend 50 hours in PreK-12 classrooms. During this practicum, students observe and implement teaching strategies, conduct action research, and gain firsthand experience working with English language learners.
Additionally, each course in the program incorporates practical assignments and case studies focusing on real students and classroom situations. These activities help students develop a toolbox of resources and strategies for future teaching careers.
What You’ll Learn:
- Deep understanding of cultural diversity
- Linguistics for ELL education
- Assessment techniques for ELLs
- Contemporary ESOL teaching methods
- Action research and practical classroom applications
How You’ll Learn:
- Interactive asynchronous online courses
- Case studies and practical assignments
- Real-world classroom observations
- Updated open educational resources (OER) materials
- Expert faculty guidance
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,047.58* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate ($338.62/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers several related programs that can complement or expand upon the Endorsement in ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) (Graduate Non-Degree) program. These include:
- Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers of Other Languages)
- Master of Science in Special Education (Gifted)
- Master of Science in Special Education (High Incidence)
- Master of Science in Special Education (Low Incidence)
Information about the Department of Advanced Education Programs
FHSU’s Department of Advanced Education Programs (AEP) is one of the most diverse and comprehensive departments, offering a wide range of programs designed to fit the unique needs of educators at every stage of their careers. Whether you aim to enhance your teaching skills, pursue a role as a building principal or community counselor, add an endorsement, or renew your license, our department is dedicated to helping you succeed in your aspirations.
AEP aims to be the leader in preparing inclusive educational and community professionals to unlock innovative potential in a rapidly advancing world, by preparing global leaders who serve in these settings. Our programs focus on the interaction among innovative technologies, relevant content, diversity, and best practices.
- Masters
- Endorsement
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