DELTA (Diploma in teaching English to speakers of other languages)
DELTA is one of the best-known and most popular advanced TEFL/TESOL qualifications in the world. It is a flexible way for experienced English language teachers to progress further in their careers.
Do you have some experience teaching, but want to feel more confident about how you teach and why you do it? Would you like to progress your career by achieving an advanced teaching qualification? Then DELTA is for you!
We offer fully online, part-time DELTA Module 1 and Module 3 preparation courses at the English Language Teaching Centre, which include:
- Forum discussions to interact with other DELTA candidates, learn about other candidates' teaching contexts and develop your understanding of the exam
- Online live sessions with practical advice about how to complete each task in the exam
- Access to past papers and examiners’ reports
- Individual tutorials to discuss your progress on the course and your performance in the mock exams set on the course
- Full University of Sheffield student status which includes access to libraries facilities, online services and student card (UCard).
The ELTC is proud to be working in partnership with NILE — one of the world’s biggest providers of training and development for English language teachers — for Module 2. NILE provides the online content and online tutor and the ELTC provides the local tutor. For further details about the course content and structure, visit the NILE website.
- Module 1: Understanding Language, Methodology and Resources for Teaching (20 credits)
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Module 1 focuses on the background to learning and teaching English. It is assessed via a written exam which tests candidates’ knowledge and understanding of teaching and learning English in a range of contexts. The examination focuses on both theory and practice.
According to Cambridge English Language Assessment, the aim of the module is to extend and develop awareness and understanding of:
- Theoretical perspectives on language acquisition and language teaching
- Different approaches and methodologies, including current developments
- Language systems and learners’ linguistic problems
- Language skills and learners’ problems
- Knowledge of resources, materials and reference sources for language learning
- Key concepts and terminology related to assessment.
- Module 2: Developing Professional Practice (20 credits)
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Module 2 focuses on planning, delivering and evaluating lessons in relation to learner needs and the learning context. It is assessed via a portfolio of coursework, including internally assessed observed lessons, background written essays and an externally assessed lesson observation.
You will use your current teaching context for the completion of the portfolio and the observations will be spread out over the course. A significant amount of scheduled, time-sensitive, independent work will be needed to complete the portfolio.
According to Cambridge Assessment English, this Module aims to develop your ability in the following areas:
- Working with language learners in a variety of learning contexts
- Preparation for teaching learners of English
- Evaluation, selection and use of resources and materials for teaching purposes
- Managing and supporting learning
- Evaluation of lesson preparation and teaching
- Observation and evaluation of other teachers’ lessons
- Professionalism and professional development
You must have access to real learners for your teaching practice within 50 miles of Sheffield.
- Module 3: Extending Practice and English Language Teaching Specialism (20 credits)
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DELTA Module 3 focuses on needs analysis, syllabus design, course planning and assessment within the context of a chosen specialism.
It is assessed via a 4,500-word extended assignment in which candidates carry out an independent investigation leading to the design of a course programme related to their chosen specialist area.
According to Cambridge English Language Assessment, the aim of the Module is to extend and develop awareness and understanding of:
- A chosen specialism
- Approaches to needs analysis
- Curriculum and syllabus design principles
- Different types of syllabus
- Course design and evaluation
- Assessment of learners.
More information about the module and the specialisms offered at the ELTC can be found in this sample from our course:
How to apply
Applications open approximately eight months before the start date. To apply for a DELTA preparation course, complete the appropriate application form for your chosen module below:
Further information
For more information about the Delta Modules, visit the Cambridge Assessment English website.
The full syllabus can be downloaded below.
DELTA Qualification Syllabus (PDF, 234kb)
Any inquiries can be sent to the TEFL Admin Team at tefl@sheffield.ac.uk
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it is up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research, funding changes, professional accreditation requirements, student or employer feedback, outcomes of reviews, and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.
Information last updated:
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