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Department of Education, Unit Catalogue 2007/08


ED50327 Second language acquisition

Credits: 12
Level: Masters
Modular: no specific semester
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims: The aims of the unit are:
* to investigate theories of language learning in relation to learning in general;
* to investigate the relationships between first and second languages;
* to critically consider second language learning theories;
* to consider the social, affective and contextual influences upon second language acquisition.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this unit, students will be able to:
* discuss the theories and literature relating to second language acquisition;
* monitor and identify language learning processes;
* identify key issues relating to language learning in their own cultural and pedagogical contexts;
* link theory and practice.
Skills:
Self-directed learning (F)
Problem analysis, research and reflection (T/F/A)
Independent working (F)
Problem-solving (F/A)
Written communication (A)
Appreciation of the complex, multifaceted nature of second language acquisition (F/A)
Ability to research, synthesise and decide on the relevancy of various theories of second language acquisition (F/A)
Key Skills
1. Make critical use of the literature of the field of Education (T/F/A).
2. Make critical use of professional experience in the field of Education (T/F/A).
4. Analyse, interpret and critique findings and arguments (T/F/A).
9. Demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems (T/F).
10. Evaluate research and variety of types of information and evidence critically, also making informed judgements in the absence of complete data (T/F/A)
12. Contribute to professional debate in the field of education (F).
13. Act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional level (F).
14. Communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences (T/F).
15. Evaluate their own academic and professional performance (T/F/A).
16. Manage change effectively and respond to changing demands (F).
17. Manage time, prioritise workloads and recognise and manage personal emotions and stress (F).
18. Develop new or higher level skill, for example in information technology (T/F/A).
Content:
To achieve the aims stated above, students will be supported in learning how critically to engage with relevant literature and to use it to inform the evaluatory analysis of their own experience of language learning. It is anticipated that topics will include:
* Overview of SLA studies
* Theories of language learning
* Psycholinguistics & First Language Acquisition
* Contrastive analysis & error analysis
* Interlanguage studies
* Form vs function / fluency vs accuracy
* Social & cultural models of SLA
* The context of SLA: naturalistic vs instructed settings
* Learner styles & multiple intelligences
* Learner strategies & learner autonomy
* Learner variables: Motivation, anxiety, age, gender.