A - Fundamental Issues in Language Teaching and Learning

Program Overview

Emphasizing learner autonomy and reflection, it includes modules on language learning, methodologies, curriculum design, and culture. The program's collaborative learning approach, tutor support, and Virtual Campus foster motivation and professional development while allowing students to study at their own pace and apply knowledge immediately.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Interuniversity Master, Diploma, and Certificates in TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) are distance learning programs designed to improve the quality and effectiveness of English language teaching. The program aims to help practicing teachers, or those aspiring to be teachers, address professional needs within their working environments. The training encourages learner autonomy while maintaining flexible interaction tailored to the specific needs of teachers in professional development. The program is an innovation in postgraduate and distance education, with a practical focus encouraging reflection on the theory-practice relationship, adaptation of new ideas to individual contexts, and testing of new teaching techniques. The Master's program provides a foundation for independent study culminating in a final dissertation (Practicum/Research Project in TEFL), potentially leading to further PhD studies. The program is offered at various levels: Master, Diploma (Especialización), and Certificates (Extensión universitaria). The overall objective is to develop the academic and professional skills required to teach English in various contexts, complementing professional practice with contemporary knowledge and insights into foreign language learning and teaching. The program encourages reflection on the theory-practice relationship, adaptation of new ideas to classroom situations, testing of new teaching techniques, application of analytical skills, critical review of relevant literature and research, and assessment of the advantages and disadvantages of various strategies and programs. The program views participating teachers as professional practitioners engaged in a process of professional development directly related to their current work situation.

Outline:

The program is structured into a Master's, Diploma, and Certificate levels. Each functions separately; completion of one is not required before undertaking another. The Certificates (A, B, and C) can provide credit transfer for later enrollment in the Diploma or Master's program. Upon completion of the Master in TEFL, credits for common subjects can be transferred to the Master in FOPELE (teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language).

Master:

81 credits total (51 coursework, 10 practicum, 20 research project). 24 months duration.

Diploma:

40 credits total (30 coursework, 10 practicum). 18 months duration.

Certificate A:

18 credits. 8 months duration. Focuses on Fundamental Issues in Language Teaching and Learning.

Certificate B:

12 credits. 4 months duration. Focuses on Applying the Principles of Language Teaching and Learning.

Certificate C:

12 credits. 4 months duration. Focuses on Language and Culture. The study materials are of high quality, written by specialists from FUNIBER and participating universities. The content is continually updated. The course is divided into three main modules: Module A (Second Language Learning and Teaching), Module B (Methodologies and Materials in Language Learning and Teaching), and Module C (Curriculum and Course Design). Each term includes materials for three or four subjects from these core areas. Each Certificate constitutes a selection of subjects from these modules. Study materials for each subject include: a preliminary introduction, subject contents (theory and pedagogical implications), reflection tasks, suggestions for further reading, a complete bibliography, assignments, key supplementary readings, a specialized glossary, and access to recommended readings. The materials are designed for simplicity and clarity, incorporating case studies and practical classroom work.

Certificate A: Fundamental Issues in Language Teaching and Learning

includes the subjects: Methodological Approaches, Second Language Acquisition, Classroom Management Techniques and Reflections on Practice, Materials and Resources in EFL, Content & Language Integrated Learning (CLIL), and Individual Factors in the Learner's Development.

Certificate B: Language and Culture

includes the subjects: Teaching English through Translation, Approaches to Language, Teaching Pronunciation, and English in the Community.

Certificate C: Applying the Principles of Language Teaching and Learning

includes the subjects: Observation and Research in the Language Classroom, Tasks and Projects, Learning Strategies, and CALL (Computer Assisted Language Learning).

Assessment:

Assessment maximizes successful outcomes and avoids examinations. Methods include submission of written assignments, reports, and creation of didactic materials.

Teaching:

The program uses a collaborative learning approach, incorporating constructivist teaching and learning concepts, promotion of critical reflection on teaching practice and beliefs, and an action-research framework. Collaborative learning is encouraged, including the formation of study groups. Students without regular internet access can use conventional materials and contact tutors via alternative methods, though the Virtual Campus is strongly recommended.

Other:

The program is a result of collaboration between FUNIBER and several Spanish and Latin American universities. FUNIBER's origins are in university projects for collaborative development within UNITWIN-UNESCO and EU Chairs and Networks. The program responds to the demand for continuous education and the ability to act in real contexts. A team of teachers and specialists in English language teaching, Applied Linguistics, and Foreign Language teacher training developed the comprehensive study program, considering the needs of each geographical area. The distance education model encourages interaction and access to the teaching experience of participants through discussion groups, debates, and chats. The program distinguishes itself from other in-service teacher training programs by its focus on collaborative and constructivist learning, provision of resources for self-assessment, access to compulsory readings, efficient communication channels, constant support, and immediate application of knowledge and skills. The program's flexibility allows students to combine it with other commitments, study at their own pace, and avoid fixed timetables. Distance education is presented as a powerful option for the present and future of society. The program requires all students to demonstrate C1 English language competence, which can be demonstrated through various internationally recognized English language proficiency tests. Students who do not hold any of the listed certificates will be asked to sit an entry exam.