About ACTDEC

ACTDEC stands for Accreditation Council for TESOL Distance Education Courses. We are an independent accrediting body, responsible for maintaining professional standards in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) online and distance programmes. Our function is to provide frameworks and accreditation structures for providers of ELT (English Language Teacher) training programmes.

We accredit course providers by ensuring that they meet and continue to adhere to a rigorous professional Code of Practice and we accredit specific courses from these providers at different levels, from introductory to advanced. While the same domains of learning, standards and learning outcomes are covered at the respective levels by all ACTDEC providers, the course methodology, approach and delivery may differ. Our partners and their accredited courses are regularly audited to ensure that quality expectations are being met.

Why is ACTDEC important?

Standards are essential in the training of teachers of English to speakers of other languages. This is especially true in the case of free-standing, online TESOL programmes as the anonymity of cyberspace can provide ideal camouflage for some unscrupulous operators. Organisations that are not prepared to submit themselves or their courses to the scrutiny of external accreditation very often have something to hide. The really first-class ELT training organisations take pride in their provision and prove it with accreditation.

However, many online course providers simply “accredit” themselves through “virtual universities” which are not recognised universities in any commonly understood sense. Such providers are not subject to regular inspection or external audit.

ACTDEC is one of the longest-standing internationally recognised independent accreditation bodies whose regulatory function aims to benefit all those interested in raising standards and protecting the public. Whether providers are just starting out or are already experienced, we help them to improve their course(s) and enhance the service they provide on an ongoing basis.

Our story

Bill Lee, a truly international figure

ACTDEC was founded in 1993 by a small group of TESOL course providers concerned about the dubious and insubstantial quality of TEFL/TESOL distance courses on offer. ACTDEC was established to advance professionalism by setting standards for online programmes offering training in TESOL.

The first Chair of ACTDEC, and one of its driving forces, was the late Dr William R. Lee, a leading expert in English Language Teaching. Well-known as a teacher, writer, examiner, the 20-year editor of ELT Journal and the founding father of IATEFL, Bill was instrumental in creating ACTDEC’s Code of Practice and accreditation procedures.

Since those early years, ACTDEC has been run by a small group of dedicated TESOL professionals. Teacher trainees deserve great value for their money and should feel thoroughly prepared to step into the classroom by the end of their chosen course.

Structure

ACTDEC is audited by IATEFL, the British Council and, from time to time, independent reviewers.

Fees and funding

Membership and accreditation fees cover accreditation and audits. We are committed to transparency. If you have a question about how ACTDEC works, please get in touch through our contact page.