Master’s in TESOL and ESL Online

<a href="https://www.onlinemasterscolleges.com/masters-in-tesol-esl-online/">TESOL and ESL Online</a>

College Name & Address	Tuition	Graduation Rate
#1 Florida State University 222 S. Copeland Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32306	$9,684	83%
#2 University of Missouri 105 Jesse Hall, Columbia, Missouri 65211	$9,478	71%
#3 Clarkson University 8 Clarkson Ave, Potsdam, New York 13699	$33,312	78%
#4 University of Southern California University Park, Los Angeles, California 90089	$47,880	92%
#5 University of Kansas Strong Hall, 1450 Jayhawk Blvd, Room 230, Lawrence, Kansas 66045	$9,989	67%
#6 Azusa Pacific University 901 E Alosta, Azusa, California 91702	$16,571	68%
#7 Arizona State University University Drive and Mill Avenue, Tempe, Arizona 85287	$11,720	63%
#8 University of North Dakota 264 Centennial Drive, Stop 8193, Grand Forks, North Dakota 58202-8193	$11,060	61%
#9 St. John’s University 8000 Utopia Pky, Queens, New York 11439	$29,816	63%
#10 University of Alabama, Huntsville 301 Sparkman Dr, Huntsville, Alabama 35899	$10,632	58%
#11 Webster University 470 E Lockwood Ave., Saint Louis, Missouri 63119	$13,500	58%
#12 Sam Houston State University 1806 Ave J, Huntsville, Texas 7734	$5,765	54%
#13 University of Missouri, Saint Louis One University Boulevard, Saint Louis, Missouri 63121	$12,283	52%
#14 California University of Pennsylvania 250 University Ave, California, Pennsylvania 1541	$9,288	50%
#15 St. Cloud State University 720 Fourth Ave. South, Saint Cloud, Minnesota 56301	$7,607	48%
#16 Kennesaw State University 1000 Chastain Rd, Kennesaw, Georgia 30144	$5,328	46%
#17 Liberty University 1971 University Blvd, Lynchburg, Virginia 24515	$7,935	47%
#18 Texas A&M University, Commerce 2600 South Neal Street, Commerce, Texas 75428	$3,630	43%
#19 Southeastern University 1000 Longfellow Blvd, Lakeland, Florida 33801	$13,365	45%
#20 Mercy College 555 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry, New York 10522	$16,686	44%
#21 The University of Texas Permian Basin 4901 E University, Odessa, Texas 79762	$2,384	40%
#22 Grand Canyon University 3300 W Camelback Rd, Phoenix, Arizona 85017	$10,528	41%
#23 Arkansas Tech University Administration Bldg 200, 1509 N Boulder Ave, Russellville, Arkansas 72801	$5,256	38%
#24 Campbellsville University 1 University Dr, Campbellsville, Kentucky 42718	$8,473	36%
#25 Western Governor’s University 4001 South 700 East Suite 700, Salt Lake City, Utah 84107	$7,500	21%

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and ESL (English as a Second Language) graduate programs are academic programs designed to prepare educators to teach English language learners (ELLs) in various contexts, such as K-12 schools, adult education programs, language institutes, and international settings. These programs typically focus on equipping teachers with the knowledge, skills, and strategies needed to support students learning English as an additional language effectively.

Graduate programs in TESOL and ESL cover various language acquisition, linguistics, pedagogy, and cultural competency topics. Coursework may include subjects such as second language acquisition theory, methods for teaching English language skills (reading, writing, speaking, listening), assessment and evaluation of ELLs, cross-cultural communication, bilingual education, and language policy and advocacy.

Students in TESOL and ESL graduate programs often have the opportunity to gain practical teaching experience through practicum or teaching placements in diverse educational settings with English language learners. Additionally, many programs offer opportunities for specialization or concentration in areas such as teaching English to young learners, teaching English for academic purposes (EAP), or teaching English in specific contexts (e.g., business English, English for specific purposes).

Upon completion of a TESOL or ESL graduate program, educators are prepared to work as ESL teachers, TESOL instructors, language program coordinators, curriculum developers, teacher trainers, or administrators in various educational settings, both domestically and internationally. These programs provide a solid foundation for professionals seeking to positively impact the lives of English language learners and contribute to the field of language education.

Difference between TESOL, ESL, EFL, TEFL, and ESOL Programs

Many students considering a career as an English Language Teacher (ELT) ask, “Are TESOL and ESL the same?” To add to the confusion, several other acronyms are used in teaching English. While they are pretty much the same, there is very little difference between ESOL, TESOL TEFL, and ESL. Here is a quick rundown of all of them:

Acronym / Abbreviation	Description
ESL	English as a Second Languageis learning English in a country where English is mainly spoken or where English is the official language.For Example: Immigrants in the U.S. who speak, say, Spanish but use English as a Second Language.
EFL	English as a Foreign Languageis learning English in a non-English-speaking country.For Example: Chinese who speak Mandarin but learn English as a Foreign Language.
ESOL	English as a Second or Other Languageapplies to both ESL and EFL contexts but where English may be the 3rd or 4th language.
TEFL	Teaching English as a Foreign Languageis the same as EFL but applies to those who engage in teaching.
TESOL	Teaching English as a Second or Other Languageis the same as ESOL but applies to those who engage in teaching.

The Master’s in TESOL is primarily designed to cater to the varying needs of English Language Learners (ELLs), specifically to ones for whom English is the third or fourth language. Under this program, students will learn pedagogical theory and best practices that can be applied in a classroom environment. Master’s in ESL graduates will also gain an understanding of the fundamentals of English language instruction but from the context of English as a Second Language, as well as English as a Foreign Language. Apart from a practicum or field experience that one will gain, various topics, such as Linguistic Analysis, Bilingual Education, Historical and Current Theories of Second Language, and Cultural Influence in Second Language Teaching, are generally covered.

Curriculum and Skills Gained in Master’s in TESOL and ESL Online Programs

Almost all Master’s in TESOL programs touch upon various topics that relate to teaching English as a second, other, or foreign language. However, curriculum varies significantly by accreditation and program, so students should choose what courses they want to take to serve their personal development and professional goals. 

The curriculum for a Master’s in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or ESL (English as a Second Language) program typically covers a broad range of topics related to language teaching, linguistics, pedagogy, and cultural competence. Some colleges may insist on a practicum experience, internship, or thesis submission. While specific course offerings may vary by institution, program structure, and specialization areas, below is a general overview of the curriculum commonly found in Master’s in TESOL and ESL programs:

Foundations of TESOL/ESL Education

This course introduces the theoretical and historical foundations of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) or English as a Second Language (ESL) education. Topics covered include critical theories of second language acquisition, historical developments in language teaching methodologies, and sociopolitical issues impacting language education. Students examine the role of culture, identity, and context in language learning and ethical considerations in TESOL/ESL practice.

Language and Linguistics

In this course, one explores fundamental concepts of language and linguistics as they relate to TESOL/ESL education. Topics include phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics of English and contrastive analysis of English and other languages commonly spoken by English learners. One also examines sociolinguistic factors influencing language variation and usage, pragmatics in communication, and the implications of linguistic diversity for language teaching.

Pedagogical Methods and Approaches

This course focuses on effective pedagogical methods and approaches for teaching English language skills to diverse learners. Students explore communicative language teaching (CLT), task-based language teaching (TBLT), content-based instruction (CBI), and other innovative approaches to language instruction. Emphasis is placed on integrating language skills (reading, writing, speaking, listening) in meaningful contexts, adapting instruction for various proficiency levels, and incorporating authentic materials and tasks into lesson planning.

Assessment and Evaluation

This course examines principles and practices of language assessment and evaluation in TESOL/ESL contexts. Students learn about formative and summative assessment strategies, performance-based assessment methods, and standardized language proficiency tests commonly used in language education. Topics include test design and development, validity and reliability of assessment instruments, accommodations for diverse learners, and ethical considerations in assessment practices.

Multicultural and Cross-Cultural Competence

This course explores multiculturalism and cross-cultural competence issues in TESOL/ESL education. Students examine the role of culture in language learning and teaching, cultural dimensions of communication, and the impact of cultural diversity on educational experiences. Emphasis is placed on developing cultural sensitivity, promoting inclusive practices, and fostering intercultural communication skills in the language classroom.

Some other additional courses that one can find across curricula include:

• Approaches to Research
• Second-Language Acquisition Theories
• Methods of Teaching English as a Second Language
• Curriculum Development in Bilingual Education
• Historical Foundations of Critical Pedagogy
• Methods and Materials in Foreign Language Instruction
• Language Learning through Technology
• Language Program Design
• Brain-based Learning
• Foundations of Instruction for English Language Learners
• Linguistics
• Second Language Acquisition for TESOL Educators
• Linguistic Analysis for TESOL Educators
• Curriculum, Testing, and Assessment
• English as a World Language

Students of Master’s in TESOL and ESL programs would have acquired a host of skills at the end of their programs, some of which include their ability to:

• exhibit foundational knowledge in linguistics and communication, including understanding key concepts such as phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics;
• theorize and explore foundations of second language acquisition, delving into theories and models that explain how individuals learn additional languages;
• demonstrate sound pedagogical knowledge and teaching methodology by applying effective instructional strategies and approaches tailored to the needs of English language learners;
• design and develop curriculum for second or foreign language learners, considering language proficiency levels, learning goals, and cultural contexts;
• support children and adult learners in their English language acquisition and mastery through differentiated instruction, scaffolding, and meaningful language experiences;
• confront the challenges that second language learners face linguistically and culturally, including addressing language barriers, promoting cultural competence, and fostering inclusive learning environments;
• assess, evaluate, and chart the progress of English Language Learners (ELLs) using a variety of assessment tools and techniques and use assessment data to inform instructional planning and decision-making; 
• understand cultures and communities and the influence language has on them, recognizing the interconnectedness between language, identity, and cultural practices;
• demonstrate in-depth knowledge of research techniques and their use in exploring issues related to language acquisition, language teaching, and cross-cultural communication, contributing to advancing knowledge in the TESOL/ESL education field.

Master’s in TESOL and ESL Degree Types

A TESOL degree generally caters to educators who have a deep desire to teach English to others while advancing their knowledge and use of the language. Although TESOL and ESL Master’s programs are looked at similarly, they target specific audiences and have independent degrees.

Specializations in Master’s in TESOL and ESL Online Programs

There are many concentrations and areas of specialization in a Master’s in TESOL. For students who wish to build a career in a subfield of ESL, opting to specialize in it should be a natural choice. Concentrations can also tailor a degree to specific areas such as Multilingual Education, Program Management, and Educational Technology. Some examples of specializations include Literary Translation, Translation for Professions, Conference and Community Interpreting, and more. Here are a few others to consider from a list of many:

Specialization	Description	Careers
Teaching English for Academic Purposes (EAP)	Through this concentration, one specializes in preparing English language learners for academic settings, focusing on language skills needed for success in higher education.	EAP instructor, academic English program coordinator, and more.
Teaching English to Young Learners	This concentration focuses on teaching methodologies and strategies for children and adolescents in English, addressing young learners’ unique needs and developmental stages.	ESL teacher in elementary or secondary schools, early childhood language instructor, and more.
Intercultural Communication	This concentration explores theories and practices related to communication across cultures, emphasizing the development of intercultural competence and practical cross-cultural communication skills.	Intercultural communication consultant, language trainer for international businesses, and more.
Technology-Enhanced Language Learning	Through this concentration, one integrates technology into language teaching and learning, exploring innovative tools and methods to enhance language acquisition and instruction through digital resources and platforms.	Technology-enhanced language learning specialist, instructional designer for online language courses, and more.
Bilingual and Multilingual Education	This concentration focuses on strategies for teaching English language learners in bilingual or multilingual settings, including content-based instruction and language policy development.	Bilingual education teacher, language program coordinator, and more.
Language Assessment and Testing	This concentration specializes in developing, administering, and evaluating language assessments and tests, including proficiency exams and standardized assessments for English language learners.	Language assessment specialist, test developer for language testing agencies, and more.

Timeline for graduation from Master’s in TESOL Online Programs

Generally speaking, to complete a Master’s in TESOL online, one would require anywhere between one and two years, with the standard duration being two years. Of course, students who enroll in part-time programs would take longer.

Most Master’s in TESOL online programs require 30 to 36 credits but can vary depending on whether one has opted for a thesis or a non-thesis program. Thesis-based programs tend to take longer to complete than their non-thesis counterparts.

Some colleges also offer accelerated programs, which can help one earn their degree in about a year. However, most of these programs will require the candidate to have a Bachelor’s degree in Education and to have completed specific prerequisite courses.

MA TESOL Online 1-Year Programs

Although most traditional MA degrees require two years to complete, an MA TESOL online 1-year program is possible. Many online MA TESOL programs are designed to be completed in a year, which is a great option to fast-track one’s studies and seek employment earlier. Those considering such programs should check the list of admission requirements because, more often than not, they will be required to have completed specific prerequisite courses to be eligible to apply. Some universities where one can find 1-year programs are:

• University of Pittsburgh ^[1]
• Grand Canyon University^[2]

Master’s in TESOL and ESL Online Programs Admission Requirements

Master’s in TESOL online requirements are pretty up to standard expectations. In almost all cases, candidates should have earned a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution and meet all other admission requirements, such as:

• An Application Form with the requisite Application Fee
• Official Academic Transcripts
• A Statement of Purpose
• A Résumé
• Three Letters of Recommendation
• Proof of English Proficiency
• Additionally, applicants must meet Grade Point Average (GPA) criteria, which some colleges will require:
  • a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00= “A”) in the last 60 hours of a first Bachelor’s degree program; OR
  • a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00= “A”) in an applicable Master’s degree program.
  • Note: It is not uncommon for some colleges to accept applicants with lower GPAs.
• A majority of colleges accept undergraduate majors in fields such as (but not limited to):
  • Applied Linguistics
  • Anthropology
  • Comparative Languages and Literature
  • Communication
  • Education
  • Cognitive Science
  • History
  • Law
  • English Literature

Note: In most cases, enrollment to Master’s in TESOL and ESL programs does not require standardized GRE or GMAT test scores to be submitted unless specified. However, one could read the College Prospectus and Program Guide for exact admission requirements, eligibility criteria, and other details.

Accreditation for Master’s in TESOL and ESL Online Programs

Without exception, accredited online ESL programs are the only ones that will lead to lucrative jobs. This is because working in an education environment will require certification and licensure, and accreditation forms the basis for this. Therefore, candidates considering a Master’s in TESOL and ESL Online should always ensure that the program they are looking at is accredited regionally, nationally, or programmatically. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)^[3] and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)^[4] are a few of the organizations that accredit these programs.

Some of the master’s in TESOL and ESL programs get accredited by regional organizations like

• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) ^[5]
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) ^[6]
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC) ^[7]
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) ^[8]
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) ^[9]
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) ^[10]

Read the guide to college accreditation to understand more about accreditation and its importance.

No GRE Master’s in TESOL and ESL Online Programs

Many Master’s programs in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and ESL (English as a Second Language) do not require the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) for admission. These programs recognize that standardized test scores may only partially reflect an applicant’s potential for success in graduate studies or their suitability for a career in language education. Instead, admissions criteria typically focus on factors such as academic background, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and relevant professional experience. Some institutions providing a no gre master’s in TESOL and ESL programs include:

• Pepperdine University^[11]
• University of Kansas^[12]

Free online courses eliminate barriers to education by providing access to high-quality learning resources for individuals worldwide. These courses are useful for gaining insights and in exam preparation.  Some examples are:

Course	Teaching English: How to Plan a Great Lesson [13]
Provided by	Class Central
Description	In this course, participants delve into the intricacies of designing and executing practical English language lessons. Through comprehensive instruction, learners grasp the significance of meticulous lesson planning in facilitating meaningful learning experiences for English language learners (ELLs). They gain proficiency in identifying clear learning objectives, selecting appropriate materials and resources, and orchestrating activities logically to attain desired educational outcomes.

Course	TESOL Strategies: Supporting ESL Students in Mainstream Classrooms [14]
Provided by	Future Learn
Description	This course, participants explore strategies and techniques to effectively assist English as a Second Language (ESL) students in mainstream classrooms. The course’s key components include understanding ESL learners’ unique needs, implementing tailored differentiation techniques, fostering language development across various skill areas, cultivating inclusive classroom environments, and promoting collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

Course	Online ESL  [15]
Provided by	City College of San Francisco
Description	This course is designed to equip those with the necessary skills and knowledge to improve their proficiency in the English language. These courses cover many topics, including language skills such as reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Additionally, ESL courses enhance one’s ability to communicate effectively in English, whether in everyday conversations, academic settings, or professional contexts.

Online master’s degrees in TESOL are designed to provide skills and knowledge necessary to teach English as a Second or Other Language (ESOL) to those from different backgrounds, who may be young children, adolescents, and adults of all grade levels. Private and public schools, colleges, and other educational institutions hire TESOL professionals as English instructors, as do companies who hire them as consultants for varied roles. Graduates of a Master’s in TESOL online can also go on to be:

• Curriculum Developers
• TESOL Program Directors 
• ESL Teacher
• EFL/ESL Instructor
• Language Program Coordinator
• Curriculum Developer
• Educational Consultant
• Language Assessment Specialist
• Language Program Director
• Corporate Trainer
• Online English Tutor
• Language Researcher
• Postsecondary Educators
•  Private Tutors.

Here is a list of possible careers and the median annual salary for each job, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

Occupation	Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers[17]
Skills Required	Communication, cultural sensitivity, patience, and resourcefulness skills.
Median Annual Salary	$58,590
Job Growth (up to 2032)	-13% (decline)
Job Description	ESL teachers instruct non-native English speakers in reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. They create lesson plans, assess student progress, and provide support to help them achieve English proficiency.

Occupation	Interpreter or Translator[18]
Skills Required	Business, communication, concentration, cultural sensitivity, dexterity, interpersonal, and listening skills.
Median Annual Salary	$53,640
Job Growth (up to 2032)	4% (as fast as average)
Job Description	Interpreters and translators convert spoken or written messages from one language to another. They may work in various settings, such as conferences, courtrooms, or healthcare facilities, ensuring effective communication between individuals who speak different languages.

Occupation	Postsecondary Teacher[19]
Skills Required	Critical thinking, interpersonal, resourcefulness, speaking, and writing skills.
Median Annual Salary	$80,840
Job Growth (up to 2032)	8% (faster than average)
Job Description	Postsecondary teachers, or professors or instructors, teach courses at colleges, universities, or professional schools. They conduct lectures, lead discussions, assess learner’s performance, and may also engage in research and scholarly activities.

Occupation	High School Teacher[20]
Skills Required	Communication, patience, and resourcefulness skills.
Median Annual Salary	$62,360
Job Growth (up to 2032)	1% (little or no change)
Job Description	High school teachers educate students in grades 9-12 in various subjects, including English, math, science, and history. They plan lessons, assess progress, and provide guidance and support to help learners succeed academically and personally.

Occupation	Instructional Coordinator  [21]
Skills Required	Analytical, communication, decision-making, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
Median Annual Salary	$66,490
Job Growth (up to 2032)	2% (as fast as average)
Job Description	Instructional coordinators, or curriculum specialists, develop and implement educational programs and instructional materials. They collaborate with teachers, administrators, and other stakeholders to improve curriculum standards, assess student performance, and enhance teaching effectiveness.

Occupation	Middle School Teacher[22]
Skills Required	Communication, patience, physical stamina, and resourcefulness skills.
Median Annual Salary	$61,810
Job Growth (up to 2032)	1% (little or no change)
Job Description	Middle school teachers educate students in grades 6-8 and specialize in English, math, or social studies. They create engaging lesson plans, monitor progress, and provide guidance to help one navigate the middle school years.

Certifications and licensing for TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and ESL (English as a Second Language) graduates vary depending on the specific requirements of different countries, states, or employers. Some standard certification options include:

Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (CertTESOL) ^[23]

The Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (CertTESOL) is a globally recognized qualification for individuals seeking to teach English to non-native speakers. This certification program typically includes teaching methodologies, language analysis, lesson planning, and classroom management training. Candidates learn practical teaching skills through observed teaching practice sessions with actual language learners. 

Certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (CELTA) ^[24]

The Certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (CELTA) is an internationally recognized qualification for individuals aspiring to teach English to speakers of other languages. This intensive certification program provides comprehensive training in language teaching methodologies, lesson planning, classroom management, and language analysis. Candidates gain practical teaching experience through supervised teaching practice sessions with real ESL students. 

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) Certification  ^[25]

The Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certification is a widely recognized qualification for individuals interested in teaching English abroad. TEFL programs provide training in language teaching techniques, lesson planning, classroom management, and cultural sensitivity. While TEFL certifications vary in duration and content, they typically include practical teaching experience and may cover teaching grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and speaking skills. 

American TESOL Certification ^[26]

The American TESOL Certification covers various topics, including language teaching methodologies, lesson planning, classroom management, assessment techniques, and cultural sensitivity. Participants in the program learn through a combination of theoretical instruction, practical teaching experience, and reflective practice. Upon completing the program, candidates receive the American TESOL Certification, recognized internationally, and can enhance their employment opportunities in English language teaching.

In the United States, ESL teachers working in public schools typically need to obtain a state teaching license or certification and any TESOL or ESL credentials.

1. Specialist Certifications: Some organizations offer specialist certifications in areas such as teaching young learners business English or teaching English for specific purposes (ESP).
2. Continuing Education Units (CEUs): ESL and TESOL professionals may also pursue continuing education units or credits to stay updated on best practices and developments in the field.

ESL and TESOL graduates must research the specific certification and licensing requirements in their desired location or field of employment to ensure they meet all necessary qualifications.

English is, in itself, a vast subject. It keeps evolving with time, meaning Master’s in TESOL online graduates need to stay current with the latest in the English language and the many methods and approaches to teaching it. Networking and connecting with peers and sharing ideas, opinions, literary works, and lesson plans will help TESOL students and educators advance their careers and horizons. Some of the many available resources to help with this are:

1. TESOL International Association^[27]
   The TESOL International Association has a separate TESOL Resource Center with resources for TESOL graduates, such as Lesson Plans, Teaching Tips, Live Event Resources, Assessments, Activities, and more.
2. International Association of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language^[28]
   The International Association of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language (IATEFL) is one of the world’s most thriving communities of ELT teachers. It offers recorded webinars, publications, news, and events.
3. Waylink Language Resources^[29]
   Waylink Language Resources is a goldmine for TESOL & TEFL teachers. This website has everything from practice materials to notes to help with vocabulary, grammar, punctuation, and academic writing! (Note: This is a UK-based website, so expect all content to be in UK English)
4. ESL Library^[30]
   ESL Library has beautifully designed, well-planned English lessons and flashcards, Assessment Tools and resources on Grammar & Usage, Classroom Management, Young Learner Activities, and more.
5. American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages ^[31]
   The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) is a professional organization dedicated to promoting and improving language education and proficiency in the United States. ACTFL provides resources, support, and advocacy for language educators at all levels, from kindergarten through higher education, and professionals in government, business, and other sectors. The organization offers various services and initiatives, including professional development opportunities, research and publications, assessment tools and standards, and advocacy efforts to promote language learning and teaching.