We have found these organizations and publications to be very helpful to institutions, individuals, and organizations seeking to improve the communication skills of English-as-a-second-language speakers. Because the quality of their work and products is top-notch, we are happy to recommend them.
Associations and Publications
ASHA/American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. The national organization of speech language pathologists and audiologists “making effective communication a human right, achievable and accessible for all.” www.ASHA.org
Easy English Times. Easy English Times publishes student articles submitted by teachers. This is an easy-to-read educational newspaper for immigrants learning English. Includes citizenship information. www.EasyEnglishTimes.com
TESOL/Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages. A global education association whose mission is to ensure excellence in the teaching of English. www.TESOL.org
Accent Reduction Training Services and Materials
The Accent Advantage. A professional program for people who want to reduce their accents and speak English more clearly, confidently, and effectively in the South Bay area (San Francisco). Accent Advantage principal Caryl Benning is professional, highly knowledgeable and caring. www.TheAccentAdvantage.org
English Health Train. This unique curriculum and materials were developed by a project team at the San Francisco Welcome Back Center to address the needs of culturally and linguistically diverse health professionals. They have a proven record of supporting health professionals trained in their native country and those immigrants interested in healthcare careers. www.EnglishHealthTrain.org
English That Works. Corporate communication and pronunciation skills training and coaching for professionals with international backgrounds in the Philadelphia area. Judy West, founder, designs programs that address pronunciation, writing, interpersonal and cross-cultural communication for employers, employees and individuals. www.EnglishThatWorksInc.com
LDS and Associates. Accent reduction training solutions and materials for workplace communication skills for ESL speakers. LDS specializes in a wide range of multi-media training options and professional education for trainers. www.LDSAssoc.com
SpeechCom Inc. Customized accent improvement training for corporate groups or foreign-born individuals in southern California. Director Anna Peck carries on a tradition of customer success and satisfaction established in 1983. www.SpeechCom.com
Successfully Speaking. A communication skills consulting company in the Baltimore/Washington metropolitan area that assists individuals and groups achieve excellence in communication. Their customized training programs are designed for native and non-native speakers. www.Successfully-Speaking.com