English

This course is to explore the nature of language and its relationship to societies. Investigations into some of the ways in which language is actually used in context in different cultures are explored. Issues such as dialect, variety, pidgin, code-switching, and identity are investigated. The emphasis is on understanding and describing how people actually make use of the language and how this impacts on communication and miscommunication. Some of the theoretical and practical issues in the investigation of authentic language use are tackled. The practical implications for teachers and language curriculum developers are also examined.

Understanding the process of second language learning is the most crucial foundation for all practices relevant to language teaching, curriculum design, and learning support services. This introductory course on second language acquisition (SLA) aims to explore how languages are learned in both formal and informal contexts, and how first language learning is different from second or third language learning. Key issues that underlie English language acquisition, with special emphasis on those that are pertinent to English language teachers are examined. Affective factors contributing to the development, maintenance, and attrition of languages are analyzed and discussed to inform educational practices of how to best facilitate the language learning process. They include age, individual differences, aptitude, cognition, affect, motivation, and social dimensions of learning.

Depending on their study ability and conditions for the thesis, final-year TESOL students can be assigned to conduct a research project under the guidance of a personal thesis supervisor. This project involves a step-by-step process from shaping a research focus, formulating research questions, developing data collecting instruments, analysing data in coherent qualitative and/or quantitative models, and discussing and highlighting findings relevant to the field of second language teaching and learning. The thesis must be presented at a public oral defence. The course will help students practice the skills of doing independent research, collecting, analyzing and synthesizing materials, and develop their critical thinking.