LSMNTR-New Technologies in Language Learning and Teaching

Module Provider: English Language and Applied Linguistics
Number of credits: 30 [15 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2019/0

Email: erhan.aslan@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module will acquaint students with the major principles and practices associated with new technologies in second language learning and teaching. Students will explore the connection between second language acquisition theories and the implementation of current Internet and computer technologies. Specifically, students will examine ways in which technology can be used to support the development of linguistic and communicative competence as learners engage in the process of acquiring another language in both instructional and everyday life settings. In addition, students will develop skills in selecting, creating, evaluating, and using technological resources and tools for second language teaching, with an understanding of how technology can be integrated into the language curriculum in theoretically and pedagogically sound ways.

Aims:

The aims of this module are: to equip students with the ability to assess the potential of new technologies in language learning and teaching; to provide them with principles for using technologies in teaching and learning activities effectively; to introduce students to and explore with them a range of issues concerning the use of new technologies in language teaching; and to familiarise them with recent research into the applications of technology in language teaching.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of this module, students will be able to:

1. define and critically examine the links between pedagogy, SLA theory, and technology;


2. explain and evaluate the role and usefulness of technology in second language learning and teaching;


3. describe a target group of learners, define aims of the learning and the learning outcomes and select appropriate technology-based learning methods;


4. create technology-mediated activities to use in the classroom  to develop various language-related skills, such as accuracy, fluency, and cross-­-cultural awareness.

Additional outcomes:

Students will develop:

1. increased understanding of the theoretical and pedagogical aspects of the applications of technology in language learning and teaching;


2. familiarity with concepts and issues in internet and computer technologies as they are used in language learning and teaching;


3. an ability to author simple language learning multimedia activities.

Outline content:

Internet and computer technologies in second/foreign language education; synchronous and asynchronous Web 2.0 (e-mail, chat, blogs, wikis, discussion forums, virtual learning environments) audio and video; virtual world/digital gaming; mobile technologies; social media technologies; CALL (computer-assisted language learning); CMC (computer-mediated communication); second language acquisition; digital literacies.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

This course will follow a back-to-back lecture and seminar sessions. It will rely heavily on class interaction and the active participation of class members in discussions and activities. Lecture and seminar activities in class will give you several opportunities to understand applications of technology in language learning and teaching and make links between theory and practice. Given the interactive nature of the course format, class participation and regular attendance of all class members are essential to fully benefit from this course.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Formative assessment methods:

Students will receive on-going feedback from the instructor and from other students in the form of comments during class and online discussions. There will also be in-class and online tasks or quizzes which will formatively assess learned knowledge and skills.

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 50% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:

Re-submission of coursework by August.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 10 April 2019