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Events

Teaching English Language Learners, Specialist AQ (Brock, Winter 2024, Online)

January 15, 2024 to March 8, 2024

  • Category: AQ, Online
  • Region: Central Ontario, Eastern Ontario, GTA, Northern Ontario, Outside Ontario, Southern Ontario
  • Topic: ESL and ELD
  • Grades: Intermediate (grades 7-10), JK-SK, Junior (grades 4-6), Primary (grades 1-3), Senior (grades 11-12)

Course Description

This course, an extension of the foundational knowledge imparted in TELL Part 1 and Part 2, specifically focuses on the Ontario Education system. The Teaching English Language Learners (TELL), Specialist course has been meticulously designed to provide candidates with the necessary skills and knowledge for developing a safe, inclusive, and culturally sensitive learning environment for English Language Learners (ELLs). An emphasis on the pivotal role of leadership and the need for capacity building within the ESL/ELD education spectrum underlines the course structure. It delves into a comprehensive exploration of theoretical foundations, program planning, relationship cultivation, and culminates with a teacher inquiry project, all the while maintaining a focus on equity and Culturally Responsive and Relevant Pedagogy (CRRP). The course underlines the importance of leadership in synchronizing inclusive instructional strategies with research-backed approaches. This involves implementing Universal Design for Learning (UDL) strategies, devising culturally responsive and relevant programs, and advocating equitable assessment methods to ensure successful outcomes for students of varied cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Recognizing the value of shared responsibility and collaboration, this course places an emphasis on cultivating meaningful relationships. It fosters a cooperative learning community that actively engages with diverse school communities and local organizations within Ontario. To further enrich the learning experience, the course integrates a teacher inquiry culminating project. This provides a unique opportunity for educators to introspect and address specific challenges that may arise in the teaching of ELLs, thus keeping teaching practices job-embedded, relevant and effective. This specialist course, not only focuses on leadership skills but also promotes the design of inclusive programs, encourages equitable assessment methods, fosters relationship building, and facilitates a process of ongoing improvement through teacher inquiry. The TELL, Specialist course serves as a dynamic pathway for becoming an effective leader in the ever-evolving landscape of ELL education within Ontario.

Learner Outcomes

Apply ethical standards and professional practices to develop a strong professional identity and leadership skills in supporting ELLs.*Design and implement culturally responsive and inclusive programs for ELLs, incorporating pedagogical theories and practices. Address bias and discrimination by applying anti-oppression theories to design professional learning opportunities for ELLs.*Collaborate with colleagues, communities, and resources to support ELLs’ well-being and promote innovative and inclusive pedagogies.*Master Ontario ESL and ELD curricula and assessment frameworks to monitor ELLs’ language and literacy development.*Utilize current research to shape professional practices and policies, considering ELLs’ diverse experiences. Understand and comply with relevant legislation and policies supporting ELL rights and privacy, fulfilling legal obligations.

Prerequisites

1. OCT MEMBERSHIP showing completion of Part 2/ 2. CONFIRMATION OF TEACHING EXPERIENCE FORM Signed by a Supervisory Official* from your School Board confirming that you have two years (388 days) of teaching experience since becoming a certified teacher, one year (194 days) of which is in the subject area of this course.