Mission
Committed to advancing both emerging and seasoned English language educators, the Master of Arts in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (MA in TEFL) program endeavors to rigorously implement innovative pedagogical strategies, state-of-the-art language assessment methods, and comprehensive research techniques. We aim to meet and exceed the dynamic educational needs for proficient English language teaching within the Saudi Arabian context and beyond. Integral to our mission is conducting relevant and creative research that fulfills current global and local demands and offering community service in the concerned fields.
Goals
In the pursuit of its overarching mission, the MA in TEFL program is guided by five fundamental objectives:
- To deepen students' understanding of both the English language and TEFL pedagogical theories, thereby enabling critical analysis of language structures, semantics, and pragmatics, as well as providing a robust comprehension of pedagogical theories and methodologies.
- To equip students with the critical understanding and practical skills necessary for assessing language needs, stages of language acquisition, and for implementing comprehensive and constructive assessment techniques
- To train students in employing contemporary methodologies for curriculum design, lesson planning, and activity development, while also focusing on adaptive, research-based strategies that prioritize learner engagement.
- To instill in students a commitment to the highest standards of professional conduct, ethical behavior, and collaborative work environments, emphasizing mutual respect, empathy, and open communication with all educational stakeholders.
- To cultivate research aptitudes and a commitment to continuous professional development, thereby encouraging scholarly contribution and setting the foundation for lifelong learning and growth in the field of TEFL.
Graduate Attributes
| Attribute | Sub-Attributes |
| 1. Advanced English Language Proficiency and Pedagogical Knowledge | In-depth understanding of English language structures; knowledge of pedagogical theories and methodologies; ability to contrast different teaching approaches. |
| 2. Expertise in Language Acquisition Theories | Comprehensive understanding of language acquisition models; applying these theories to enhance TEFL practices. |
| 3. Innovative Teaching and Assessment Skills | Ability to analyze learners’ needs, implement innovative teaching methods, and use varied assessment techniques effectively. |
| 4. Research Competence in TEFL | Skills to conduct and critique TEFL research; contribute to the field’s advancement; stay informed of global trends. |
| 5. Professionalism and Ethical Standards | Upholding high standards of professionalism and integrity; promoting an ethical educational environment. |
| 6. Collaborative and Empathetic Engagement | Fostering collaborative educational environments; prioritizing empathy in interactions with stakeholders. |
| 7. Commitment to Lifelong Learning and Professional Development | Demonstrating ongoing commitment to professional growth and staying current with advancements in TEFL. |
| 8. Global and Cultural Competence | Awareness of global and cultural issues; application of intercultural competencies in TEFL contexts. |
Program Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding |
| K1 (1.1): Articulate a comprehensive understanding of the English language by critically analyzing its structural, semantic, and pragmatic components. |
| K2 (1.2): Explain and contrast major pedagogical theories, approaches, and methodologies used in TEFL tailored to English for general purposes, specific purposes, and for young learners. |
| K3 (1.3): Describe and evaluate the major theories, models, and stages of language acquisition, highlighting their implications in TEFL contexts. |
Skills |
| S1 (2.1): Critically analyze language needs and proficiency of learners, devising specific strategies and targeted interventions to enhance their English acquisition processes. |
| S2 (2.2): Implement rigorous and varied assessment techniques, providing constructive feedback to foster students' continual growth in English proficiency. |
| S3 (2.3): Utilize contemporary language teaching methodologies to innovatively plan lessons, design engaging activities, and critically evaluate the effectiveness of curricula and instructional resources. |
| S4 (2.4): Foster active learner engagement by implementing adaptive teaching strategies grounded in contemporary, research-based pedagogical principles. |
| S5 (2.5): Conduct and critique research in the field of TEFL, demonstrating the ability to identify areas of inquiry, synthesize literature, and contribute to the advancement of the discipline. |
Values, Autonomy, and Responsibility |
| V1 (3.1): Uphold the highest standards of professionalism and academic integrity, fostering an environment of mutual respect with students, peers, and administrators. |
| V2 (3.2): Uphold and promote the highest ethical standards of the educational community and institution, setting a benchmark through one's actions and interactions. |
| V3 (3.3): Foster a collaborative educational environment, prioritizing empathy and open communication with peers, students, and their families. |
| V4 (3.4): Demonstrate a commitment to continuous professional development, staying updated with global advancements in the TEFL field, seeking opportunities for self-evaluation and lifelong learning. |
Program Courses
| Semester 1: Foundations of English Language Teaching | |
| 6201TEFL-3 Advanced English Grammar | Delve into the complexities of English grammar, enhancing your ability to teach advanced grammatical structures effectively. |
| 6202TEFL-3 Academic Reading and Writing | Focus on developing strategies for teaching academic literacy, emphasizing reading comprehension and writing proficiency. |
| 6203TEFL-3 Speech Workshop Seminar | A practical seminar designed to refine your teaching techniques in spoken English, including pronunciation and fluency. |
| 6401TEFL-3 Phonetics and Phonology | Understand the sound systems of English, crucial for teaching accurate pronunciation and listening skills. |
| Semester 2: Methodologies in TEFL | |
| 6501TEFL-3 Teaching English to Young Learners | Specialized methods and approaches for engaging and educating young English language learners. |
| 6502TEFL-3 Teaching English as a Foreign Language | Comprehensive coverage of TEFL methodologies, focusing on effective teaching practices in diverse international contexts. |
| 6503TEFL-3 Second Language Acquisition | Explore the theories and processes behind language learning, essential for informed teaching strategies. |
| 6504TEFL-3 Language Assessment | Learn to design and implement effective assessments to evaluate and enhance language learning. |
| Semester 3: Specialized Applications in TEFL | |
| 6505TEFL-3 Teaching English for Special Purposes | Tailor your teaching to specific fields such as business English or medical English. |
| 6506TEFL-3 Curriculum Design and Materials Development | Develop expertise in creating curricula and educational materials for varied teaching scenarios. |
| 6507TEFL-3 Technology for Teaching and Learning English | Integrate modern technology into your teaching practice to enhance learning experiences. |
| 6508TEFL-3 Research Methods in English Language Teaching | Gain proficiency in conducting research in the field of English language teaching. |
| Semester 4: Advanced Practice and Research | |
| 6509TEFL-3 Classroom Discourse Analysis | Analyze classroom interactions to improve teaching effectiveness and student engagement. |
| 6510TEFL-3 Practicum | Apply your learning in real-world teaching environments, gaining valuable hands-on experience. |
| 6511TEFL-3 Project | Undertake a capstone project that showcases your comprehensive understanding and practical application of TEFL principles. |