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. The precise usage, including the different use of the terms ESL and ESOL in different countries, is described below. These terms are most commonly used in relation to teaching and learning English, but they may also be used in relation to demographic information.

ELT (English language teaching) is a widely-used teacher-centred 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.