Teachers of English to speakers of other languages (TESOL) focuses on teaching English and learning. The increasing demand for education in the English language and the ability to communicate has shown the value of TESOL. The demand for teachers who are highly qualified and trained to teach English continues.

Definitions
TESOL encompasses teaching English as a foreign language and teaching English as a second language. English may be taught in a country where English is not the native language, or it may be taught to those who are non-native speakers living in a predominately English-speaking country.

Values
TESOL focuses on values in teaching, including professionalism of language education, maintaining an accessible education, collaborating in a global community, the interaction of research and practice and respect for diversity.

Education
TESOL programs provide certification by learning online or in a classroom setting to learn how to teach English in other countries. Most TESOL programs focus on examining and analyzing how to teach English as a second language, how to create lesson plans, comparing methods/approaches to TESOL and how to facilitate communication among the class.

Job Placement
Many certification programs provide assistance with job placement at schools in the United States or abroad. Most TESOL programs will help you review your educational background and work experience to help you find the best teaching placement.

Classroom
The TESOL classroom often includes the traditional classroom, or it can include online teaching. Although the purpose of the lesson plan normally does not change for learning from each TESOL class, the approach can differ and the learning materials/aids used in the classroom can differ. Planning a curriculum should engage different learning styles and materials to reach as many students as possible.

Curriculum Planning
When developing a curriculum for TESOL, the lesson plan is normally 45 minutes long and includes a lesson plan warm-up, a review of what was previously learned, a presentation of the new material, pronunciation exercises, a closing game, music or flashcards.

Computers
Computers often are used in the TESOL classroom to enhance the learning experience. Personal computers can help students enhance learning by focusing on reading, writing and speaking in English. Phonetics programs, like Pronunciation Power, allows students to practice pronunciation and facial movements so that the activities may be repeated through downloads. Speech recognition programs, like Dynamic English, can help students practice speaking English in a microphone. Computers also can help TESOL students develop their writing and English skills, so students may become increasingly aware of spelling and grammatical errors.