History of the English Language Institute
The English Language Institute (ELI) began classes in June 1996 with five students. Since that time, the program has experienced continued grow and now serves more than 150 students, most of whom are preparing for study in academic listening skills, and speaking pronunciation classes. Through an intensive twenty-five hours per week, students have the oppo
rtunity to prepare for the language challenges of American classrooms. The focus of the English Language Institute, therefore, is to equip ESL students with the necessary language skills to achieve success in the degree program of their choice and to enhance their potential for future employment after graduation. Curriculum Philosophy:
The English Language Institute at Missouri State University is a progressive intensive English program which offers a state-of-the-art education to international students seeking to improve their academic language proficiency. Our curriculum is based on a communicative approach to language teaching / learning, and our courses are learner-centered rather than teacher-centered. As such, we view the instructor’s role as that of a guide, facilitator, coach, and mentor. In this capacity, instructors will allow students to shape the content and direction of courses as much as is feasible within the stated objectives / guidelines set for each class as outlined in the instructor’s manual (see “Minimum Requirements”). In addition, instructors in our program will be aware of and take into consideration individual personality and learning style differences as well as other affective factors.
