Postgraduate Module Descriptor


EFPM266: Principles of Language Learning for TESOL

This module descriptor refers to the 2021/2 academic year.

Module Aims

The aim of this module is:

•    to critically review foundational concepts in second language learning theories;

•    to provide an overview of the current debate on key issues in second language learning research;

•    to enable participants to engage in critical analysis and discussion of an area of study in second language learning;

•    to enable participants to consider critically the application of current research in language learning to language teaching practice.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

This module's assessment will evaluate your achievement of the ILOs listed here - you will see reference to these ILO numbers in the details of the assessment for this module.

On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:
Module-Specific Skills1. demonstrate a critical understanding of linguistic and cognitive perspectives of second language acquisition, including language transfer and processing; input, interaction & output; and individual differences;
2. Demonstrate a critical understanding of social and cultural perspectives of second language learning, including mediated learning and scaffolding; community of practice and L2 socialisation; culture and identity;
3. Demonstrate the ability to apply the critical understandings of above different theoretical perspectives to the development of TESOL pedagogic practices.
Discipline-Specific Skills4. demonstrate an ability to apply course input to their own and their peers' teaching and learning situations;
5. demonstrate an awareness of how their own students might approach learning;
6. demonstrate an ability to evaluate the success or otherwise of different teaching strategies in particular situations;
Personal and Key Skills7. Demonstrate an ability to study effectively independently and in groups, including the presentation of materials for group and class discussion;
8. demonstrate an ability to digest, select and organize material to produce, to a deadline, a coherent and thoughtful analysis of theory applied to professional and cultural situations;
9. demonstrate an ability to take responsibility and carry out agreed tasks;
10. demonstrate an ability to study independently in group/pair work;
11. demonstrate an ability to create a presentation of materials for group and class discussion.