Module LANG40260: DISSERTATION

Department: English Language Centre

LANG40260: DISSERTATION

Prerequisites

• None

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• The student will
• engage in an in-depth library-based or empirical study of a particular area of language teaching and learning
• understand the nature of empirical research and enquiry in language teaching and learning
• understand key research methods relevant to empirical study in teaching and learning and develop the capacity to apply these methods
• demonstrate self-direction and independence in research
• apply logic and rationality in the research context
• develop an in-depth critical appreciation of a particular area of language teaching and learning
• know and apply academic conventions as required in the field of applied language studies (eg citation, formatting, style)

Content

• the dissertation provides the opportunity to engage in in-depth research in an area of language description, language pedagogy, language acquisition or some area related to language studies according to the student's interest. The research may be empirical or library-based and the module will incorporate core methodological background to support this research as well as presenting the skills necessary for producing successful dissertation research. The dissertation 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 and empirical evidence in language teaching and learning

Learning Outcomes

• clear 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
• understanding the role of research in supporting pedagogical practice

• development of skills in understanding the significance of empirical research
• ability to analyse language data
• ability to apply concepts in language teaching and learning to the classroom environment

• 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

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:

Research tool design (for example a questionnaire, classroom observation protocol) with 500 word rationale. 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