DELTA (Diploma in teaching English to speakers of other languages) is a detailed and comprehensive course that covers advanced theory and practice to help you develop in your teaching career.
DELTA is a qualification from Cambridge English Assessment, which is part of the University of Cambridge.
You need at least one year’s experience to make the most of it, although many people take it after a number of year's experience in the classroom. If you are planning to progress into academic management a DELTA is a very good idea. In some schools it will be a prerequisite.
There are three modules, which you can take in any order.
DELTA Module 1
DELTA Module 1 is “Understanding Language, Methodology and Resources for Teaching”. This is the examined module, and is primarily theoretical. Topics are
- Theory of language acquisition and language teaching
- Different teaching approaches and methodologies
- Language systems and linguistic problems
- Language skills
- Resources, materials and reference sources for language learning
- Assessment concepts and terminology
Because this module is examined, some people benefit from additional help with exam preparation and revision. We have an online course exactly for this. See here!
DELTA Module 2
DELTA Module 2 is “Developing Professional Practice”. It is assessed with a portfolio of coursework and assessed lesson observations. Topics covered are:
- The learner and learning context
- Preparing to teach
- Using resources and materials in the classroom
- Managing and supporting learning
- Evaluating lesson planning
- Observing lessons
- Professional development
DELTA Module 3
DELTA Module 3 is independent research on either an ELT specialism or management. It is assessed by a written dissertation