Definition:

ESL (English as a second language), ESOL (English for speakers of other languages), and EFL (English as a foreign language) all refer to the use or study of English by speakers with a different native language.

ELT (English language teaching) is a widely-used teacher-centered term, as in the English language teaching divisions of large publishing houses, ELT training, etc. The abbreviations TESL (teaching English as a second language), TESOL (teaching English for speakers of other languages) and TEFL (teaching English as a foreign language) are all also used.

ESL Program in Canada:

Canadian government offers free part-time and full-time English as a Second Language Instruction to refugees and permanent residents through the Federal Government Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program. Free on-site child-minding is available for these classes. Students who are unable to attend LINC can attend a part-time evening class at a very moderate cost.

The ESL classes use a practical, functional approach to language learning, and focus on settling in Canada and participating fully in Canadian life. Class levels range from basic literacy through high intermediate.

Technology:

The Internet has become instrumental in language learning and a ubiquitous communication tool. Thus it is a necessity to update the technological infrastructure in schools through initiatives such as rewiring site facilities to support Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) in both ESL and LINC classrooms.