Understanding Language Learning and the Language Learner

Code

EDUC4256

School

Education

Level

4

Credits

30

Semesters

Autumn Malaysia

Summary

The module focuses on key areas in Applied Linguistics relating to Second Language Acquisition (SLA), and explores them from the perspective of both language learners and teachers. These include:

• ‘The good language learner’
• A historical overview of theories of SLA (key insights from applied linguistic research)
• Recent applied linguistic developments in the theorisation of SLA as a dynamic complex system and social process
• Implications of first language acquisition for SLA
• Variability and individual differences in SLA (gender, age, aptitude, motivation, attitudes and beliefs, cognitive styles, strategies, autonomy and self-regulation)
• The role of grammar, vocabulary and phonology instruction in second language learning
• Trends in applied linguistic research into SLA including the broadening of the field, greater exploitation of computerised samples of language, the growing stature of classroom-based investigation.

Students will be expected to read, understand and engage critically with the research presented on these topics.

Target Students

Students taking Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma and MA Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). And other programmes within the School of Education. Available to JYA/Erasmus students

Classes

• One 8-hour lecture each week for 4 weeks

30 hours face-to-face over two consecutive weekends

Assessment

• 100% Assignment: An assignment of 6,000 words with 10% tolerance either way

Assessed by end of designated period

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

A. Knowledge and Understanding
A student who completes this module successfully will have knowledge and understanding of:

• English as a linguistic system, related sub-disciplines within the field of applied linguistics and second language acquisition theories
• The varying characteristics of language learners; how programmes can be designed and delivered to meet more effectively the needs of particular learners in specific teaching contexts

B. Intellectual Skills
A student who completes this module successfully will be able to:

• Critically evaluate relevant practice, including their own, in the light of current theory and practice in the field
• Critically evaluate relevant theory and empirical research in language education.

C. Transferable/Key Skills
A student who completes this module successfully will be able to:

• Critically analyse and evaluate their own professional practice and that of others
• Communicate clearly and confidently on educational issues
• Analyse and evaluate the relevance and adequacy of theory, empirical studies and practical proposals relating to education.

Conveners

• Prof Dr. Lee Kean Wah