Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/teaching-english-capstone-2
Embarking on the journey to become a certified TESOL instructor is a significant undertaking, and Coursera’s ‘Teach English Now!’ specialization offers a comprehensive path. Having completed the foundational courses, I recently dove into the ‘Teach English Now! Capstone Project 2,’ the culmination of this extensive program. This capstone is where theory meets practice, and it truly solidifies the skills learned in the preceding modules.
The primary objective of Capstone Project 2 is to apply your accumulated knowledge through practice teaching. This involves refining lesson plans and, crucially, recording yourself delivering these lessons. The course structure is thoughtfully designed to guide you through various teaching scenarios.
Module 1 focuses on planning and teaching reading and writing lessons, emphasizing the integration of technology. This was an eye-opener, as it pushed me to think creatively about how digital tools can enhance language acquisition in these specific skills. Module 2 mirrors this approach but shifts the focus to listening and speaking lessons, again with a strong emphasis on technology-enhanced delivery.
Module 3 delves into planning and teaching grammar and pronunciation. This module requires you to not only create lesson plans but also to film micro-teaching videos, allowing for self-assessment and refinement of your teaching style. It’s a challenging yet incredibly rewarding part of the process.
Module 4, aptly named ‘Teacher Toolbox,’ is a collaborative space. The initial lesson encourages participants to share teaching tips, building a collective resource. The second lesson is for those who haven’t completed the first specialization, ensuring everyone has access to essential tools.
Finally, Module 5 brings everything together. Here, you create and submit a digital teaching portfolio for expert review. This portfolio serves as a testament to your learning journey and is the final step towards earning your 150-hour TESOL Certificate from Arizona State University (ASU), in addition to your Coursera certificates.
My experience with Capstone Project 2 was demanding but immensely valuable. The process of planning, filming, and reflecting on my teaching was instrumental in identifying areas for improvement. The feedback from peers and instructors (through the portfolio review) provided crucial insights that I wouldn’t have gained otherwise. If you’re serious about TESOL and want a practical, hands-on experience that prepares you for real-world teaching, I wholeheartedly recommend this capstone project. It’s the perfect bridge from learning to doing.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/teaching-english-capstone-2