Course Title: Analysis of Second Language Acquisition
Campus Course Code: LING 5348
Campus: UT El Paso
Program:
Course Description
This course presents the theories and models proposed to account for second language acquisition, starting in the 1950s and up to the present time. Students have opportunities to consider these theories, to evaluate the research undertaken in support of the different models, and to conduct analyses of interlanguage data. The theories considered include proposals regarding the external factors that influence second language acquisition. You will also gain understanding of the internal mechanisms involved in second-language learning: the so-called ‘black box.’ In the final part of the course, students are challenged to consider ways in which second language acquisition theory informs classroom teaching.
Objectives
In this course, you will have the opportunity to examine the claims and the findings put forth by a number of researchers and theorists. Once you've read and discussed the related material, you will have gained invaluable experience in four important areas:
- Sizing up different proposals about the nature and course of second language learning, both natural and instructed, using Krashen's Model as a springboard.
- Understanding the interdisciplinary nature of second language acquisition research and the difficulty researchers continue to have in developing a comprehensive model.
- Knowing what it really means to be proficient in a second language.
- Developing best teaching practices as an outcome of reflection on what we know and do not know about second language learning.
Materials
To see a complete list of materials needed for this course, as well as any important notes and instructions provided by the instructor, visit the UTTC Book Lists.
Prerequisites: Graduate in good standing
Credits:3
Level:Graduate
Faculty
Maria Blume
mblume@utep.edu