This course is designed for professionals in the field of language education. It focuses on language acquisition theories and the role of language in society, particularly in transcultural settings. It will also encourage you to enhance your skills in TESOL and consider issues connected with TESOL teaching globally.
Theoretical units feed into practical units of language teaching methodologies, and course design and assessment, while the unit Special Topics in Applied Linguistics focuses upon specific areas of contemporary relevance. You will also learn the basics of research methods in applied linguistics and will be given the scope to conduct your own independent study, which could prepare you for a future in research.
You will evaluate current second language acquisition theory and consider the roles and status of languages in multicultural societies, particularly in Asia. You will consider contrastive learning and teaching styles with special reference to teacher-student roles in Asian and Australian societies. You will also learn to effectively plan and evaluate language teaching, schemes of work/syllabuses, and language assessment procedures.
You will be able to take alternative pathways - coursework or research. If you aim to undertake doctoral level studies in the future you are advised to complete the research dissertation pathway. Graduates of the research pathway are expected to be able to plan and conduct research, and to develop and evaluate projects with a high degree of initiative, independence and resourcefulness.
This course is designed for teachers intending to work in Australia or overseas, and is available to domestic and international students.
Please refer to the handbook for additional course overview information.