U.S. Embassy in Brazil Exchange Program for English Language Teachers from U.S.-Brazil Binational Centers

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This initiative is part of Post’s continuing efforts to strengthen the network of U.S.-Brazil BNCs, and is aimed at investing in the professional development of their teachers by providing participants with additional professional/cultural experiences that will help position their BNCs in the forefront to compete in the increasingly aggressive English teaching market. This BNC Faculty Development Exchange (FDE) does not follow the traditional TEFL certificate model, but rather, expands teachers’ knowledge and experiences regarding U.S. education, culture and society in general, while improving participants’ teaching skills and English language proficiency. This program will select mid-career teachers (between five and fifteen years working at the BNC) who have no previous academic experience and familiarity regarding living in the United States.

In terms of program content, participants’ program agenda should include:

– Educational visits to different types of ESL programs (dual language immersion, co-teaching, and pull-out programs in primary/secondary schools, intensive English language programs at different universities and/or community colleges, ESL instruction for adult immigrants, ESL taught in private language schools, etc.);

– Workshops and discussion sessions with TEFL/TESL specialists on current topics such as Project-based Learning, E-Learning, Differentiated Instruction, Content-Language Integrated Instruction, English for Specific Purposes, and Teaching English to Students with Learning Differences, etc.;

– A focus on reflective practice by way of activities/discussions weaving the program visits and workshops together, and the development of a plan of action to be carried out upon teachers’ return to their institutions.

– A cultural component that will provide participants with a more comprehensive understanding and knowledge of the U.S. culture and society, so as to better position themselves as English language teachers, thus becoming more empowered and, at the same time, expanding their and their BNCs’ networks. To the extent possible, we would also like to see included in the agenda a home-hospitality activity.

– One or more visits and/or a workshop on the Maker Movement and how it is being used to complement the students’ learning process.