Global Launch hosts international educators for annual ASU TESOL conference

This month, Global Launch, Arizona State University's English-language training unit, hosted the international Teach English Now! conference at the Tempe campus.

Now in its second year, the Teach English Now! conference focused on the “future of language learning” to encourage participants to share innovative solutions to language learning in their home countries. The conference allowed participants an opportunity to collaborate with professional TESOLTESOL stands for teaching English to speakers of other languages. teachers from around the world, discussing intersectional topics on technology, blended and flipped classrooms and personal learner stories.

Along with the conference, 15 attendees participated in the Teach English Now! practicum taught by Global Launch international educators Shane Dixon and Jessica Cinco, earning a TESOL certificate upon completion.

"The concept of 'traditional education' has been rapidly changing with the constant and continual creation of new technology," Dixon said. "Language educators are finding new, unique ways to enhance classes, whether courses are taught in the traditional classroom or online. This conference allows educators to reflect on all the ways in which they ignite learners to engage in language learning through technology and explore exciting possibilities for the future.”

This year’s conference, held from Aug. 2–4, included 55 participants from more than 20 countries. Of the attendees, 22 participants presented, including Allison Sobol from the Council on International Educational Exchange.

At the end of the program, Global Launch recognized the work of Nancy Biddington, an international educator from Canada for the 2018 TEN! Outstanding Achievement Award.

According to Dixon, “Nancy’s work with underprivileged Haitian youth and Syrian refugees represents the values that best represent Teach English Now!: commitment, courage, community, and competence. During her time at the conference, Nancy not only sought to improve her own pedagogy, but she extended a helping hand to other teachers, bringing advice and ideas to group conversations, demonstrating a willingness to connect to teachers globally.”

To learn more about Teach English Now!, the first completely online TESOL certificate provided by a major university, or the Teach English Now! practicum and conference, contact Shane Dixon or visit teachenglish.asu.edu.