Glossary ELT Terms

Active Learning
This term is used to describe project-based learning in which active student participation in the learning process is promoted; the teacher acts as a facilitator of the student learning experience rather than a one-way provider of information.

Approach
A set of principles about teaching including views on method, syllabus, and a philosophy of language and learning. Approaches have theoretical backing with practical applications.

Assessment
is the process the college uses to evaluate student skills in areas such as reading, writing and mathematics and English as a Second Language (ESL).

CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages )

Communicative Approach
A set of principles about teaching including recommendations about method and syllabus where the focus is on meaningingful communication not structure, use not usage. In this approach, students are given tasks to accomplish using language, instead of studying the language. The syllabus is based primarily on functional development (asking permission, asking directions, etc.), not structural development (past tense, conditionals, etc.).

Constructivist Learning
Students construct meaning using multiple resources and data sources.

Cooperative Learning: This term is used to described structured group work in which students work together and direct their own learning; the teacher acts as a facilitator of learning. Students are frequently assigned roles within their group (i.e., chairperson, recorder, manager, reporter, organizer).

EFL (English as a foreign language)
Originally this term referred to non-native speakers who are learning English language in a non-native English environment.

ESL (English as a Second Language)
Teaches English to LEP students; may be used with students with different native languages in the same class. ESL teachers have training in principles of language acquisition and in language teaching methods, but are not fluent in the home languages of their students.

ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)

ETL (English Language Teaching)

ICT (Information and Communication Technology)

Methodology
A system of principles, practices, and procedures applied to a specific branch of knowledge.

Pedagogy
The strategies, techniques, and approaches that teachers can use to facilitate learning.

STT (Student Talking Time)
The trend in ESL/EFL pedagogy has been to limit the amount of time that the teacher is talking and increase STT with a student-centered classroom.

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
TOEFL is an English proficiency test for international students who want to study abroad.

TTT (Teacher Talking Time)
TTT is often associated with a teacher-centered classroom.