Postgraduate Module Descriptor


EFPM313: Issues in English Language Teaching

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

Module Aims


This module aims to enable students to:

  • explore and develop a critical perspective on current debates relating to the role of English as a Lingua Franca and the relationship between TESOL, power and ideologies;
  • critically review and contribute personal views on current approaches to the teaching of culture in the language classroom;
  • examine characteristics of Content and Language Integrated Learning;
  • develop knowledge of and personal perspectives on individualization, differentiation and mixed ability teaching;
  • examine and evaluate perspectives and pedagogical models which reflect authenticity of text and task in the classroom;
  • explore current and personal views on the use of critical materials;
  • explore an issue emerging from their own context

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 awareness of current debates and new insights relating to issues at the forefront of the discipline of TESOL concerning the role of English as a Lingua Franca and the relationship between TESOL and ideologies;
2. demonstrate a conceptual understanding of how culture is defined and theoretically constructed in relation to language learning;
3. show understanding of the implications and practical considerations relating to Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL);
4. develop professional knowledge of individualization, differentiation and mixed ability teaching;
5. demonstrate a critical understanding of different perspectives on authenticity;
Discipline-Specific Skills6. demonstrate a critical understanding of the role of specific needs and learner diversity in language education;
7. explain and justify the rationale behind choice of approach for language teaching and materials;
Personal and Key Skills8. engage in independent study and group/pair work;
9. critically analyse relevant academic literature; and
10. demonstrate self-direction and originality in both independent and collaborative work.