The Online Professional English Network (OPEN) offers virtual learning opportunities to English language educators, professionals, and learners around the world. The program is designed to promote cultural exchange and provide free access to teaching materials that can be reused and adapted. These professional development opportunities are developed by U.S. academic institutions and experts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL).
OPEN's Online Courses for Teachers, previously known as the American English E-Teacher Scholarship Program, allow foreign English teaching professionals to take university-level courses through various U.S. university partners. The initiative is funded by the U.S. Department of State and administered by FHI 360. These courses utilize modern instructional technology to offer an interactive distance-learning experience, aiming to familiarize teachers with current methods and issues in English as a Foreign Language education. Additionally, they connect participants with U.S. experts in English language teaching and foster a network of international colleagues.
The Winter 2021 Open Online Courses include topics such as Content-Based Instruction, English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI), Integrating Critical Thinking Skills into Cultural Exploration in an EFL Setting, Professional Development for Teacher Trainers, Teaching English to Young Learners, Teaching Grammar Communicatively, TESOL Methodology, and Using Educational Technology in the English Language Classroom.
For more information or inquiries about participant eligibility requirements or application forms, interested individuals can contact BelgradeEL@state.gov.