ALM4150

Research design in applied linguistics

Heather Lotherington and Joanne Winter

12 points
* 2 hours per week
* First semester
* Clayton

Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, a student should have developed insight into issues concerning methods and methodologies for researching language which are applicable to applied linguistics. As well students should have developed some practical research skills and techniques which can be applied later to individual research projects.

Synopsis This subject introduces students to the `what, how and why' of doing research in the area of applied linguistics. It covers approaches to doing research in applied linguistics as well as types and methods of research eg qualitative, quantitative, grounded research etc. In particular, it covers ways of data collection (eg interviewing, participant observation, questionnaires) and issues in data description, analysis and interpretation. Ethical concerns relating to research in applied linguistics are also discussed. The aim of this subject is to assist students in developing research skills in the area of applied linguistics.

Assessment Four research exercises (4000 words): 70%
* Take-home test: 30 %