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Dearth of ESL classes …. Can online learning help?
There is an article, Adultsface dearth of ESL classes: The waiting lists are long ,that highlights the scarcity of ESL classes for adults in the US. This isn’t something new that I have or we have heard. I’ve met a number of immigrant adults who want to learn English but have failed to find the right class or the right time for it. Their complaints usually are that the classes do not teach them what they require, in most cases, for their jobs. And this is understandable given that classes cover material that is more general than what they need.
There is definately a shortage of ESL teachers in certain locations, but increasing the number of ESL teachers does not seem to be a sufficient solution to this problem. Their needs are too specific that could perhaps be more adequately met by one-on-one tutors. Online learning is slowly taking shape, at universities and through ESL publishers. I think that over the next few years, online learning will start to cater to a wider group of adults seeking ESL lessons as the internet becomes even more of a household utility. Through online learning, more personalized lessons can be provided. Additionally location is no longer a factor and neither is time really. This leads me to ask, who are the front runners in providing online ESL courses?
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