Language Teaching Research Level 5

• Credit value: 15 credits at Level 5
• Convenor and tutor: Professor Bojana Petric
• Prerequisite: Approaches to Language
• Assessment: a 2000-2500 word essay (100%)

In this module we introduce you to theory, research and practical advice with regard to second/foreign language teaching, particularly with reference to the teaching of English to speakers of other languages (TESOL).

You will develop a critical understanding of key language teaching approaches and ‘post-method’ teaching frameworks, and become familiar with current empirical research and its pedagogical implications on topics ranging from teaching the four language skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) and elements of knowledge (pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar) to issues such as teaching materials, teaching languages for specific purposes and language assessment.

Indicative syllabus

• Approaches and methods in language teaching and the post-method era
• Research on the language teacher
• Research on teaching the four language skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing)
• Research on teaching pronunciation, vocabulary and grammar
• Language teaching materials
• Teaching languages for specific purposes
• Language assessment

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• explain what is currently known about second and foreign language teaching from research, how we have come to know it, and what still needs to be investigated
• evaluate and develop optimal teaching and training procedures in light of relevant research findings
• make informed assessments of second language teaching methods, materials and programmes
• answer your own questions about second language teaching and training, frame new questions in the light of current research, and move toward research projects of your own.