By Sepp Nasri
The OISE TEFL certification from the University of Toronto not only offers a comprehensive pathway into the world of teaching English as a foreign language but also allows educators to specialize in several specific niches.
These OISE University of Toronto TEFL course specializations, designed by the number one Faculty of Education in Canada, range from teaching young learners to business English.
They're designed to enhance teaching credentials and significantly improve employment chances, and something you won't find in other general TEFL courses online.
Here's everything you need to know about OISE TEFL course specializations. Let’s go through them one by one:
Teaching English to Arabic Speakers
This specialization focuses on addressing the unique linguistic challenges that arise due to the differences between Arabic and English.
This includes tackling common phonological errors, such as the pronunciation of English vowels, diphthongs, and consonants, which are typically challenging for Arabic speakers.
This targeted training aims to bridge cultural and linguistic gaps, making learning more effective and engaging for Arabic-speaking students.
Learn more about this specialization in Teaching English to Arabic Speakers.
BEST RECOMMENDED FOR: Educators who will be teaching English to Arabic-speaking students, either in regions where Arabic is the primary language.
Teaching English to Korean Speakers
This specialization delves into syntactic and morphological differences between Korean and English, providing strategies to help students master the proper tense and aspect of English verbs.
It also focuses on common phonological errors, helping teachers improve their students' pronunciation of English vowels, diphthongs, and consonants.
Learn more about specializing in Teaching English to Korean Speakers.
BEST RECOMMENDED FOR: Educators planning to teach English in Korea or to Korean-speaking students elsewhere.
Teaching English to Mandarin Speakers
This specialization focuses on reducing the impact of first language interference, which is common due to the significant differences between Mandarin and English in terms of phonology, syntax, and grammar.
The course offers strategies for teaching English pronunciation, which is often difficult for Mandarin speakers due to the tonal nature of their native language and the presence of sounds in English that do not exist in Mandarin.
Learn more about specializing in Teaching English to Mandarin Speakers.
BEST RECOMMENDED FOR: Educators planning to teach English in China or to Mandarin-speaking students globally.
Teaching English to Young Learners
This specialization focuses on creating engaging and effective learning experiences for young learners.
The course covers essential aspects such as designing balanced lessons that incorporate a variety of teaching media and activities.
Additionally, the specialization includes training on how to integrate technology into the classroom and methods for assessing young learners' progress effectively.
Learn more about specializing in Teaching English to Young Learners.
BEST RECOMMENDED FOR: Educators who plan to specialize in teaching English to children in diverse educational settings, enhancing their ability to engage and educate young learners effectively.
Teaching Test Preparation Courses
This specialization is crafted for educators aiming to prepare students for major English proficiency tests such as TOEFL and IELTS.
The course is comprehensive, covering key aspects of test preparation including the development of reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills specific to exam formats.
Educators will also learn to teach essential test-taking strategies, vocabulary, and grammar aligned with the demands of these tests. This focused training is ideal for enhancing students' performance and confidence in test settings.
Learn more about specializing in Teaching Test Preparation Courses.
BEST RECOMMENDED FOR: Teachers who want to specialize in preparing students for major English language proficiency tests, enhancing their credentials and ability to help students achieve their best possible exam results.
Teaching Business English
This specialization focuses on the development of specific language skills needed in the business world, such as writing formal emails, conducting meetings, and negotiating deals.
The course covers essential business vocabulary and phrases, and it also includes culturally appropriate communication practices to equip students for the global business environment.
Learn more about specializing in Teaching Business English.
BEST RECOMMENDED FOR: Teachers looking to specialize in Business English to enhance their students' ability to communicate effectively in professional and international business settings.
Online Teaching and Learning
This specialization focuses on the pedagogical strategies and technical skills necessary for effective online teaching.
The course covers various aspects of virtual education, including lesson planning for digital platforms, engaging students remotely, and utilizing technology to enhance learning outcomes.
Educators will also learn about the best practices for managing virtual classrooms and adapting traditional teaching methods to online formats.
Learn more about specializing in Online Teaching and Learning.
BEST RECOMMENDED FOR: Teachers who are transitioning to online education or enhancing their skills in virtual classroom management and digital teaching methodologies.
Learner-Centered Lessons
This specialization is designed for teachers who aim to enhance their approach to creating more engaging and effective learning environments tailored to the needs of their students.
It emphasizes the importance of building a classroom atmosphere that prioritizes the preferences and strengths of students.
The course covers strategies for implementing behavior structures, utilizing student choice in activities, and integrating cooperative learning.
Learn more about specializing in Learner-Centered Lessons.
BEST RECOMMENDED FOR: Educators looking to foster a more inclusive and adaptive learning environment that actively involves students in their own learning process, enhancing their engagement and educational outcomes.
Teaching Abroad
This specialization focuses on understanding different educational and cultural environments, enhancing adaptability and effectiveness in various international settings.
Key components include researching potential teaching destinations, preparing for varied work environments, and developing effective resume and interview strategies tailored for international teaching positions.
Additionally, the course addresses common misconceptions and practical concerns related to living and working overseas.
Learn more about specializing in Teaching Abroad.
BEST RECOMMENDED FOR: Educators who are looking to teach English abroad and want to thoroughly prepare for the logistical, cultural, and professional challenges they might encounter in international classrooms.
How to Enroll in OISE TEFL Course Specializations
Enrolling in OISE TEFL Course Specializations is easy.
Choose the 120-hour OISE TEFL course to include two extra specialization units of your choice.
Alternatively, you can opt for the 150-hour OISE TEFL course, which includes two additional specialization units, and a specialization unit on teaching abroad.
Simply select your desired course and begin your teaching journey with us!
The 100-hour OISE TEFL certificate ($995 CAD) contains six core course units developed by language experts at OISE at the University of Toronto. It does not include the option for specialization.
The 120-hour OISE TEFL certificate ($1,295 CAD) contains the six core course units, plus two additional specialization units of your choice.
The 150-hour OISE TEFL certificate ($1,495 CAD) contains eight core course units, two additional specialization units of your choice, plus one additional unit on teaching abroad.