English as a Second Language, University Professor

Don C.

I have taught English as a Second Language, English as a Foreign Language, English for Special Purposes, English for Academic Purposes, and much more for over 40 years. I have taught in the US (my home country), Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Mexico, and Japan, where I was a university professor for 26 years before my retirement in 2022. I have taught students from dozens of countries all over the world. And I would be excited to work with learners of any age from any country and any language background.

I have a BA and MA in Applied Linguistics from California State University, Fullerton (USA), and a Ph.D. in Communication Studies/Linguistics from the University of York in the UK. I have taught TESOL methodology and education courses as an adjunct at California State University, Long Beach and at Temple University Japan. During my 2003-2004 sabbatical, I was a Visiting Scholar at UCLA. I have published and presented on language education.

I view language primarily as a mode of social interaction and therefore put communication at the very center of language learning. One learns through interaction. Vocabulary learning is also a vital aspect of language acquisition. Of course, I am also thoroughly knowledgeable about any and all aspects of formal language structure.

It is my job as a language teacher to assess where learners are on the path to effective use of the target language (English) and then provide structured opportunities to expand their abilities in all aspects of language use. Every learner is different. Each has his or her own strengths and preferences. I strive to adapt my teaching to those unique strengths and preferences.