Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

None

Co Requisite Comment

Research Methods in Applied Linguistics (ALC8020) is a compulsory module for all students on the MA Applied Linguistics and TESOL programme.

Aims

This module aims to provide students with the basic knowledge and skills required to design and carry out independent research in the area of applied linguistics and teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL). It introduces the key research approaches and a variety of research methods used in investigating language teaching and learning. It will take a step-by-step approach through the process, from getting to know the key concepts involved in applied linguistics research, to the design, carrying out a research project, and interpreting the research findings. It also introduces students to exemplary research articles in this area.

Outline Of Syllabus

1.       Research in Applied Linguistics
2.       Good academic conduct
3.       Overview: data collection methods
4.       Survey-based research
5.       Interview data
6.       Classroom observation
7.       Document analysis
8.       Action research
9.       Mixed methods research
10.       Case study
11.       Ethnographic research
12.       Experimental data collection methods
13.       Qualitative analysis
14.       Quantitative analysis
15.       Discourse analysis
16.       Conversation analysis
17.       Analysing spoken data
18.       Social semiotics workshop
19.       Workshops for data analysis
20.       Planning for assessment tasks

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of key concepts, approaches and techniques in applied linguistics and TESOL research
• Understand strengths and limitations of individual research techniques and traditions
• Demonstrate knowledge of the key elements of a research proposal in the field of applied linguistics and TESOL.

Intended Skill Outcomes

• Can write critically evaluate research designs
• Can identify relevant research foci in the area of applied linguistics or TESOL
• Can apply knowledge and ideas to the design of a research project

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures provide an introduction to the weekly content, establish a basic level of understanding of the topic, and signal areas for individual further study and essential and further reading. In-class discussions provide students with the opportunity to raise questions related to the teaching contents and to discuss them in more depth. Group activities and discussions also allow students to share and engage in personal reflections.

Structured Guided Learning activities provide students with weekly opportunities to consolidate learning through guided tasks linked to the weekly topic.

In some weeks, students will practise their data collection and analysis techniques in seminar workshops.

Independent study will enable wider reading, further personal self-reflection and assignment preparation

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

Ability to critically evaluate link between theory and research, as well as strengths and limitations of research methods, will be assessed in the research method critique. Other knowledge outcomes, and skills outcomes, including ability to identify gaps in the field of research, to identify links between research and practice, and design a research project, will be assessed through a written research proposal.

General Notes

Original Handbook text:
This module provides students with the basic knowledge and skills needed to design and carry out an independent research study in the area of applied linguistics and teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL). It begins by discussing the purpose of applied linguistics research. It then introduces key approaches to research and a variety of research tools used in investigating language teaching and learning. You will be taken step by step through the process of designing a research project, identifying data collection procedures and analysing and presenting your findings.