The DELTA course at LAL Torbay

The DELTA (Diploma in English Language Teaching to Adults) course is an in-service training course for experienced teachers. It leads to the most widely recognised Diploma in English Language Teaching. The new modular DELTA has been designed to be more flexible to suit the varying needs of practising teachers. It consists of three modules which can be taken in any order and at any time, and are separately certificated. (See A description of the course for more details). 

At LAL Torbay, we are introducing a new semi-intensive course in 2011 that will combine Modules One, Two and Three.  The course will consist of three blocks: a 5-week intensive block from 10 January to 11 February, 12-week online support from 13 February to 06 May and a 2-week intensive block from 09 May to 20 May.  

The DELTA Scheme lays great emphasis on the integration of practical classroom approaches with a thorough understanding of language systems and learning theories.

The scheme provides unique opportunities for effective, practical classroom training combined with professional education in the underlying theories and principles of language and language learning. Candidates’ teaching will be assessed through a series of Teaching Assignments, which demonstrate the integration of classroom skills, theoretical knowledge and the ability to develop professionally to meet new challenges.

The DELTA course will help you to:

• deepen your understanding of the principles and practice of teaching the English Language to adults
• examine your current practices and beliefs
• apply the results of your learning and reflection to your current teaching position and more senior roles.

The DELTA Course is intended for experienced teachers wishing to extend their professional experience and accept new responsibilities, as it not only demonstrates a commitment to the profession, but is also proof of ability.

It is open to people from all language backgrounds. All participants must have a competence in English, both written and spoken, that enables them to follow the course and complete all assessed and non-assessed elements successfully.

Ideally applicants should:

• have at least two years' full time (1,200 hours) experience of teaching English to adults within the past five years.
• have a range of teaching experience in different contexts and at different levels.
• be a graduate and have an initial teaching qualification.
• have a standard of English which will enable you to teach at a range of levels.

We may still accept applicants if they do not strictly meet all of these requirements but can demonstrate that they would be likely to complete the course successfully.

The course features a balance of theory and practice to enhance your understanding of the English language, while examining in depth the principles of effective teaching and the practical skills required for teaching English to adult learners.

In the new modular format there are three modules;  

• Module 1 – background to teaching and learning.
• Module 2 – focusing on developing professional practice (This module involves five hours of assessed teaching practice)
• Module 3 – focusing on a specialist option.

Although the modules can be taken at any time and in any order, it is strongly recommended that Modules One and Two be taken concurrently.   

Module 1

Module 1 will cover;

• historical and current theories of first and second language acquisition
• approaches and methodologies
• language systems and skills
• learner problems
• evaluating teaching and reference materials
• role and methods of assessment

At LAL, there will be special exam preparation sessions during the 2-week intensive block in May. This module will be assessed through an exam consisting of two papers, which will be taken in June. 

Module 2

Module 2 will cover;

• examining effects of different contexts on learning English
• managing, supporting and maximising learning
• planning and teaching lessons at different levels
• evaluating different approaches and materials
• developing the ability to observe and reflect on teaching

This module will be assessed through written assignments and teaching practice (5 lessons) which will be taken during the January and May block.

The input sessions will take the form of lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, group activities and discussions but will usually be a combination of these formats.

In addition to these contact hours, you will need to set aside about 300 hours for reading research and assignment writing if you are planning to do the two modules.
 

Module 3

This will depend completely on which area of ELT you are interested in (for example, business English, teaching young learners etc.) and can be taken at any time.

This module is assessed by means of an extended written assignment.

Please return the application form to LAL Torbay by post or e-mail.  Places on the course will be limited to 8.
 
Interviews will take place during November. These interviews are also an opportunity for you to discuss your needs and ask any questions.

You are welcome to visit or otherwise contact the School to discuss the requirements of the course and your suitability for it.

You can download an application form below.

For further information, contact Lucy Gubbin at the address below.

LAL Torbay, Conway Road, Paignton, Devon TQ4 5LH
Telephone (01803) 550930, fax (01803) 559606, e-mail: lucy.gubbin@lalschools.com

Course fees (excluding Cambridge fees)

Combined fee for Modules one to three: £2200

Cambridge fees for 2012

Module 1: £100
Module 2: £120
Module 3: £70