When I reflect on my journey receiving my add-on endorsement, I think back to my first days learning about on-line classes last January. I was completely overwhelmed and terrified. I hadn't taken any form of class in over twenty years, my technological experience was lacking, my writing abilities had digressed to sending home news bites to parents, I had a broken wrist and the processing speed of a turtle, and I truly didn't think that I would be able to complete the coursework.
Today, I feel like I have accomplished so much during the past year. I didn't know what a wiki was last year: now I have helped younger teachers create their own wiki's and have even taught a wiki class during the summer. I can blog and create much better presentations than I could before taking the coursework for licensure.
Last year, I was teaching ESL students using common sense and techniques I had learned over the years of teaching and being a principal. Today I understand more about how second language learners do learn, understand techniques that will help them learn, and I feel that I am much more qualified to teach second language learners than I was last fall. The courses that I took last year have prepared me for the position that I hope to have for many years. I also have the books and resources that I will refer to as I continue my journey of learning how to be a better ESL teacher.
Process of Obtaining Licensure
The process of obtaining licensure began for me last summer when I wanted to find a school that offered a program where I could take the appropriate courses. I looked at several different schools, and I came across some information listing Dr. Craig as a contact person. When I emailed her, I received an immediate response, and I decided then that I wanted to pursue certification through MTSU. After getting accepting into the college and the program, I began taking classes in January. I will be able to complete my coursework in December. Due to a conflict with dates, I will not be able to take the Praxis until the winter of 2011. I will then apply for licensure through MTSU and Tennessee.Experience Working With ESL Students
I received a temporary license to work with ESL students this year, so I have had a classroom while I worked on my field experience. I have enjoyed my experience working with these students more than I can ever express. They are a complete joy to work with and while the work can be challenging, it is always fun and exciting. I have been fortunate that I have been able to work with small groups, and I have also developed a close relationship to the students and their families.
I have loved having the wiki to use with the students, parent, and teachers. The materials that were developed for the wiki have been so beneficial to everyone. I use to refer back to information and to websites. I think it was an extremely useful and meaningful way of making assignments that could be used in the ESL environment.
I have used all the materials that we created during the coursework with my students. I particularly liked all the assignments that included activities that were centered around a book.
Advice To Others Who Intend To Pursue The Add-on Endorsement And Who Hope To Work With Second Language Learners In The Future
My advice would be to take the coursework even if you are able to receive certification without it. The coursework is invaluable to learning the best strategies to use with second language learners and to develop a better understanding of second language acquisition.I would also advise others to make sure and save much of the information and resources that are shared by others in the classes. There have been times I wished I had saved some information that I no longer have access to.
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