EDF6234

Issues in curriculum design and assessment in second and foreign languages

(EDU)

Dr M Gearon

12 points + 3 hours per week + Second semester + Clayton

Synopsis: The unit examines recent trends in language teaching curriculum design and assessment in second and foreign language education. Students explore in detail a range of syllabus types such as structural, notional/functional, task-based, competency based, process. Procedures for analysing the needs of learners of English in the student's society are discussed, and relevant curriculum documents from that society are viewed critically. A conceptual framework for assessment is developed so that students can readily recognise the purpose of existing language tests that learners undergo in their society, which may be placement, or measurement of achievement, or of second language proficiency.

Assessment: Reflective journal (2000 words): 30% + Oral presentation (1500 words): 20% + Essay or report (2500 words): 50%