Factors in SLA
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| ENGL4350 | English | 4 | N/A | April Full Year UK, Full Year UK, January Full Year UK |
- Code
- ENGL4350
- School
- English
- Level
- 4
- Credits
- N/A
- Semesters
- April Full Year UK, Full Year UK, January Full Year UK
Summary
This pod presents the wide range of factors which impact on second language acquisition (SLA). Biological, cognitive and affective factors are discussed together with characteristics of SLA environments such as the nature of input, interaction, instruction and the role of culture. Case studies and research papers are used to examine how these factors interact to accelerate or impede SLA. Such multifaceted and multidisciplinary research has investigated how different factors influence various markers of SLA including the acquisition of vocabulary and grammar as well as receptive, productive and pragmatic skills. This evidence-based approach will encourage engagement in critical evaluation, considering complementary theoretical perspectives where relevant. Students will systematically reflect on personal experience of SLA, and draw conclusions from the documented experiences of others, developing an appreciation for the agency of the learner in ultimate SLA attainment.
Target Students
Students registered on the School of English online masters scheme.
Assessment
- 100% Participation: Student Participation
Assessed by end of designated period
Educational Aims
This module comprises an optional component in the following pathways: Applied English, Applied Linguistics, Applied Linguistics and ELT, and World Englishes. As such, it contributes in its specific aims to the programme-level coverage of these pathways.Learning Outcomes
Demonstrate how internal and external factors interact in the process of SLA.
Discuss the importance of interdisciplinary research in studying factors in SLA.
Produce and justify an original research design to investigate one or more factors in SLA.
Demonstrate knowledge and skills acquired to the appropriate disciplinary and professional standard.
Assimilate and present subject-specific material in an appropriate format (assessed within the ‘Assessment Portfolio’ 1, 2 or 3).