Module LANG40160: DISSERTATION

Department: Language Centre

LANG40160: DISSERTATION

Prerequisites

• None

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• The student will
• Be able to critically develop a particular area of applied language studies
• Know of the aims and methods of enquiry in applied language studies analysis
• Be able to analyse experimental data
• Apply scientific reasoning to applied language studies
• Demonstrate self direction and independence in research
• Be able to relate a theoretical approaches to language to issues language teaching and learning
• Know and apply the academic conventions required in the field of applied language studies (e.g. proper citation, bibliographic format, etc)

Content

• The dissertation provides the opportunity for students to research in more depth an area of language description, language pedagogy, language acquisition or some are related to language studies, according to the student’s interest. The research will build upon concepts covered in one or more of the modules taken on the MA course and will emphasise the importance of theoretical underpinnings in language teaching and learning.

Learning Outcomes

• In-depth understanding of concepts in current applied language studies
• Understanding of current approaches to applied language studies from a historical perspective
• Understanding relevant theoretical issues in language studies and how they relate to the teaching/learning environment

• Mastery of the analytical skills used in current language studies research
• Ability to analyse language data and experimental results

• Ability to read, understand and critically appraise primary texts
• Ability to synthesise a body of literature to support a coherent argument
• Ability to use appropriate academic conventions in writing
• Ability to design and implement experimental studies

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• The student will be given a personal supervisor and receive individual support for the dissertation writing process. In addition, the Centre will hold research training seminars throughout the year to teach academic conventions such as proper ciatation and to give guidance in the research and study skills (e.g. using databases, effective note-taking, etc.) required in carrying out an extended piece of research.
• The supervisor will ensure that the student is doing the appropriate research and necessary reading to write a dissertation that reflects a command of relevant theoretical background and an ability to apply this knowledge to actual or envisaged teaching practice. The student will demonstrate an ability to research and organise complex material to sustain a logical argument. These arguments will be supported by a clarity of style and purpose that follows the expected conventions of academic writing.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Dissertation Outline and Bibliography.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University