[Eric]

Ever wonder what all those acronyms mean? Here you go:

TESOL: Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
This acronym might be a substitute for TESL more than for TEFL. It is sometimes preferred over TESL because English can be a third, fourth or fifth, etc. language to a student.

TEFL: Teaching English as a Foreign Language
Teaching English as a Foreign Language – is an industry catering for students studying English in non-English speaking countries (see EFL). It is often taught by both native English speakers and local experts, although native English speakers are generally considered preferable. Common qualifications for TEFL teachers include certificates and diplomas issued by UCLES (University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate) and Trinity International Examinations Board of Trinity College, London.

TESL: Teaching English as a Second Language
The teaching of English in an environment where English is the predominant language, to someone whose first language is not English.

TEAL: Teaching English as an Additonal Language

TEIL: Teaching English as an International Language

TESP: Teaching English for Specific Purposes

ESOL: English for Speakers of Other Languages

EOP: English for Occupational Purposes

EAP: English for Academic Purposes

EFL: English as a Foreign Language
The study or learning of English in an environment where English is not already the predominant language, such as in a non English speaking country, by someone whose first language is not English.

ESL: English as a Second Language
The study or learning of English in an environment where English is the predominant language, by someone whose first language is not English.