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Awards

East Carolina University-TESOL Award for an Outstanding Paper on NNEST Issues

Background: The role of non-native English speakers in teaching of ESL/EFL has gained considerable recognition over the past decade, as seen in the establishment of the NNEST Caucus within TESOL and a respectable number of scholarly publications on the NNEST issues. TESOL, through the statement on non-native speakers of English and hiring practices (October 1991) and the approval of the NNEST Caucus, has contributed significantly to raise awareness of the professional needs, struggles (e.g., discrimination in hiring), and strengths that these teachers bring to the field of TESOL. However, there is currently no TESOL award that recognizes teachers and researchers who work toward the better understanding of NNEST and opportunities for professionalization for NNESTs at various educational and professional stages. The English Department of East Carolina University proposes this award in order to support teachers and researchers "both native and nonnative speakers of English" who contribute to the scholarship of NNEST issues.

Who's Eligible: TESOL members who have had a proposal accepted for presentation (paper or colloquium) on NNEST issues at the Annual TESOL Convention. Both native and nonnative speakers of English may apply.

Purpose: To recognize scholarship on NNEST issues.

Amount: One award will be given in the form of US$250, donated by East Carolina University, and a free registration to the TESOL Convention to be donated by TESOL, Inc.

Criteria: Eligible proposals are evaluated according to (a) the significance of the topic as it relates to the NNEST research, (b) the contribution to the field of TESL/TEFL, (c) originality and creativity in concept, and (d) relevance and broad impact.

To Apply: Applicants will submit their proposals through the TESOL call for participation. Using the check-off box provided on the proposal form, applicants must indicate their desire to be considered for this award.

Due Date: Click here.

Notes:

1. This award cannot be accepted twice by the same person.
2. NNEST Caucus Chair and a member of the TESL/Linguistics program at Eastern Carolina University will participate in the adjudication process.
3. The award will be given for a 10-year period with option to renew in 10 years.

 

TESOL Leadership Mentoring Program Award

Who's Eligible: TESOL members who are (a) nonnative speakers of English, (b) employed in settings other than universities, or (c)members of underrepresented groups in TESOL.

Purpose: The Leadership Mentoring Program (LMP) helps underrepresented groups within TESOL become more involved in the work of the association. At the TESOL convention, this program pairs selected individuals with mentors who guide recipients throughout the year as they contribute their time and expertise to TESOL and its varied activities and projects.

Criteria: Nomination submissions are evaluated on the basis of (a) membership in an underrepresented group in TESOL; (b) organizational experience, such as involvement in a TESOL regional affiliate; (c) service to the profession; and (d) potential for TESOL involvement and leadership.

To Nominate: A nominator (a) should be a member of TESOL and (b) must complete a nomination form (available on the awards by nomination Web page), including a 500-word statement explaining the candidate's potential as a future leader of TESOL. Evidence could include past involvement at the affiliate level, experience in leadership positions, and professional contributions (e.g., workshops, conference presentations, published articles).

Supporting Documentation: (a) A completed Statement of Interest form (available from TESOL) from the candidate that includes a statement of support from the candidate's employer, and (b) a 500-word statement from the candidate explaining (1) why the candidate wants to participate in the program, (2) what the candidate hopes to gain from the program, and (3) what the candidate can contribute to TESOL.

Additional Comments: The program is a three-part partnership among the candidate, his or her employer or sponsoring organization, and TESOL. Employers are asked to support the candidate's involvement in a TESOL activity for at least 1 year to the extent possible by (a) providing in-kind contributions (e.g., postage, telephone); (b) providing transportation to the Annual TESOL Convention in 2008, if possible; and (c) encouraging the mentoring relationship between the candidate and a TESOL leader.

Candidates are asked to (a) volunteer their services (at least 10 hours) to a TESOL committee, interest section, or the local committee during the convention; (b) attend organizational meetings during the convention; (c) serve on a standing committee, interest section, or task force of their choice for at least 1 year; (d) participate in the Leadership Development Certificate Program during and after the convention; (e) maintain regular contact with the designated mentor; (f) submit an article for possible inclusion in a TESOL serial publication; and (g) provide TESOL with a written assessment of their experiences by February.

For more informantion, click here.