Irene Purushottam
TESOL Educator
Teaching Experience
Languages
I am fluent in English and Hindi. I also have intermediate proficiency in, Nepali, Telugu, and basic proficiency in Cebuano. My multilingual background helps me better understand language learning from both teacher and learner perspectives and strengthens my commitment to culturally responsive teaching.
Summary
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I am currently completing a Master of Arts in TESOL at Brigham Young University–Provo, expected in April 2026. I also hold a Bachelor of Arts in TESOL and Education from Brigham Young University–Hawaiʻi, with minors in Psychology and Special Education. My academic background has prepared me to teach, design curriculum, and support learners through inclusive and research-informed practices.
My teaching experience includes work in university programs, language institutes, online teaching, and adult ESL settings. I have taught at BYU’s English Language Center, PACE International Academy, US Ling Institute, Inlingua Language School, and BYU–Hawaiʻi. Across these settings, I have taught grammar, reading, speaking, vocabulary, pronunciation, workplace English, and integrated-skills courses for multilingual learners from diverse backgrounds.
Education
Curriculum and Materials Development
Teacher Training and Mentoring
Research and Presentations
A major part of my professional work involves curriculum design and materials development. I have created course plans, assessments, rubrics, can-do statements, and task-based activities using the ADDIE model. My curriculum work has focused on designing instruction that is practical, measurable, and responsive to learner needs. I have developed materials for general English, academic English, ESL support, and novice-level Hindi instruction, with attention to pacing, learner analysis, and program alignment.
My experience also includes tutoring, learner support, and mentoring in academic settings. At BYU–Hawaiʻi, I worked as an ESL tutor and teaching assistant, where I supported students in grammar, writing, reading strategies, vocabulary development, and error correction. I have also led study sessions and micro-workshops and contributed to learner support through targeted feedback, individualized guidance, and instructional scaffolding. These experiences have strengthened my ability to support both students and fellow educators through clear, practical teaching guidance.
My professional interests include TESOL research, educational technology, and curriculum innovation. I co-presented at the iTESOL Conference on AI-assisted vocabulary test bank creation, focusing on efficiency, quality, user experience, and training needs. I have also contributed to curriculum projects such as a citizenship curriculum for immigrants preparing for U.S. naturalization interviews and materials related to Legal English and ESP. These projects reflect my interest in connecting research, pedagogy, and real-world learner needs.