Practice of English Language Teaching

The MA in the Practice of English Language teaching at the University of Hertfordshire is a one year programme for graduates in English, with little or no teaching experience who want an initial preparation course in English Language Teaching at post-graduate level. The programme gives an in-depth introduction to the teaching of English and provides a strong practical foundation for future development. A practical teaching element is a central feature of the programme; students will participate in practice teaching sessions throughout their study period.

It is a twelve month full-time programme. The two taught semesters (Semester A & B) are examined by coursework and lead to a Post-Graduate Diploma in the Practice of English Language Teaching. These are followed by a dissertation in Semester C (June – September), successful completion of which will lead to an MA (PELT).

The programme will cover the following areas:

* A practical introduction to the teaching of English
* A teaching and learning-focused study of the English Language, including grammar, pronunciation, vocabulary, texts, and genre
* Study of the extent and range of uses of English
* Theoretical insights into how languages are learned
* Methods of English language teaching and practical teaching sessions including needs analysis, syllabus design and materials production and evaluation, incorporating use of technology and testing
* Research methods – preparation for research and dissertation
* Dissertation – which will involve some collection and analysis of data

Careers
Graduates of the programme will be qualified for jobs teaching English at a range of levels in most countries of the world. They will be able to take on positions of responsibility at course design, and course management levels.