JAL4530 - Teaching and Learning Asian Languages

Leader: Dr Robyn Spence-Brown

Offered

Clayton First semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

A broad introduction to theoretical and practical issues in the teaching and acquisition of Asian languages. Topics include communicative competence (what students need to know in order to interact in Asian languages); the aims of language teaching; how people learn language; course design; approaches and methods; and assessment. The aim is not to provide definitive answers but to introduce students to a cross-section of current thinking and research on relevant issues. Seminar discussions and activities will enable students to relate the general issues to their own teaching and learning situations and to learn from the experience of others.

Objectives

Be aware of a cross-section of current thinking and research on issues relevant to the teaching and learning of second or foreign languages, especially Asian languages. Be able to apply this knowledge to practical teaching and learning situations and problems. Develop skills in finding, reading and interpreting research articles relating to language teaching/learning. Develop abilities in academic writing, and in oral presentation. Relate prior learning in areas of applied linguistics and related disciplines to theoretical issues in language teaching and learning, and to the understanding of research in the field.

Assessment

Assignment (2 000 words): 20%; Class presentation (1 000 words): 10%; Essay (4 000 words): 50%; Test (2 hours): 20%.

Contact hours

3 hours (2 x 1 hour seminars and 1 x 1 hour tutorial) per week

Prerequisites

Competence in Japanese, or permission of Coordinator

Prohibitions

JAL5530