ESL or English as a Second Language is a study program of the English language. Also known as English as a Foreign Language or EFL, this program is developed for non-native speakers. Most ESL programs typically have smaller classes to ensure every student gets personalized attention. While traditionally these programs were conducted offline, online ESL classes have become popular over the last few years. This is mostly because of the convenience that online sessions offer.
Reasons to pursue ESL courses
Most ESL courses involve sessions where students study the English language along with participating in social and cultural activities that enhance their language skills. The primary goal of these programs is to help students improve their level of English. So, most of these courses have modules that teach different language skills based on students’ English abilities, requirements for doing the course, and their interest in the language.
All these programs have been developed to teach conversational English, basic and advanced grammar, listening comprehension, vocabulary, reading, and writing. This is quite useful for non-native speakers who want to pursue university or college degrees in the country. Besides this, these skills are useful for travel as well as social purposes.
Typically, students take up General English classes to learn and practice conversational English. Plus, they acquire the skills needed for commuting in various different social situations. For those interested in using English language skills in professional settings or for higher education purposes, an intensive program of ESL that includes Business English courses is more useful.
Benefits of online ESL classes
While the learnings and skills of both offline and online programs are often similar, digital programs can be beneficial for some people.
Flexibility of learning modes
Online ESL classes generally have different modes of learning. Some may have fixed schedules that require students to log in at exact times, while there are other courses that are self-paced. This means the sessions are generally pre-recorded and students can go through them at their own pace. There are no fixed timings to login to the classes. Such self-paced classes are usually suited for those who like to study independently.
Accessibility from anywhere
The reason for the high popularity of online ESL classes is that one can attend these from anywhere. All a student needs is a reliable internet connection and a device with audio and video capability. Using these, it is possible to access the classes from wherever one is. Whether a person is commuting, at home, or in a public space, they can easily view and listen in to the lessons.
Convenience of tracking progress
Online ESL courses like most digital programs often have features that allow students to track their progress through the course. These features are similar to how people can check all the levels they have crossed while playing online games. So, students can have an overall view of all the modules they have completed, the percentage of completion, assignments done, and modules remaining.
Affordability
Generally, online ESL courses are relatively cheaper than offline programs. On average, one can expect to pay around $10 to $50 for online courses. Meanwhile, offline ESL course packages generally cost anywhere between $200 and $1000.
Things to look for in an online ESL program
With online ESL programs becoming quite popular, there are many options to choose from. It can get confusing while deciding which classes are the right ones. Considering a few factors can help make an informed decision.
Accreditation
An accredited course ensures that it meets the general industry standards. Plus, an accreditation makes sure that the contents of the course are up to date and relevant. In general, an ESL course must have accreditation from the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET) or from the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA).
Membership
Along with accreditation, certain memberships can also help determine the legitimacy of an online ESL program. The meneships ensure that the course is recognized by higher educational institutions as well as employers who have ESL competencies as prerequisites. Typically, most ESl programs are members of either the American Association of Intensive English Programs (AAIEP) or the University and College Intensive English Programs (UCIEP).
Learning modes
Different online ESl courses have different learning modes. While some are self-paced programs, others have fixed deadlines. Besides this, some courses can have pre-recorded sessions, while others have interactive live sessions. A combination of both may also be offered by some programs. Based on one’s requirements, it can be useful to choose a course with a learning mode that is convenient. For instance, if one has a full-time job with changing shift timings, a self-paced program with pre-recorded sessions would be a good choice.
Course contents
Check all the topics covered by the course. Verify whether these topics meet the requirements of standard ESL tests. Besides this, look at the structure of the course.
Instructor profiles
Go through the profiles of the instructor of the course. They should ideally have ESL specialist or teaching certificates. This ensures that they have all the necessary skills, expertise, and experience to teach all aspects of the ESL course.
