Teaching practices of ESL teachers in Ontario

This study examines teaching practices of ESL teachers in the Ontario elementary school system. The goal is to identify potential areas for improvement in teacher training as well as the most common and efficient manner in which to deliver teacher education. Specifically, the study seeks to answer the following questions: (1) Which ESL teaching methods and activities do most ESL teachers use? (2) Which ESL classroom materials do most ESL teachers prefer? (3) Are there any improvements that could be made for ESL teachers, the elementary school system, and ESL teacher education? The results of the study show that, while several teachers are comfortable with the most established methods, new models of ESL instruction are preferred by participants. Participants also reported that a variety of influences inform their teaching practice, which highlights the importance of context in informing teaching practice.