This module will provide an introduction to the processes involved in the acquisition of language and the nature of the learner's knowledge of language. The emphasis of the module is on some of the different theoretical approaches which have been adopted for studying language learning. These different theories will be examined and critically assessed in the light of empirical evidence. The module will focus on the following issues:
* First language acquisition
* Second language acquisition:
* developmental sequences
* similarities and differences between first and second language acquisition and between child and adult second language acquisition
* the role of the first language in the second language acquisition process
* the role played by Universal Grammar
* the role played by cognitive mechanisms
* the role played by age of initial exposure, input and interaction and psycho-social factors
* The complexity of the interaction between innate linguistic knowledge, general learning mechanisms and social factors in language acquisition
Learning outcomes:
By the end of the module, students will:
* understand key theoretical constructs used in the field of language acquisition
* be aware of past and current issues in the generative study of the acquisition of morpho-syntax
* be able to evaluate, compare and contrast major theoretical perspectives
* be able to evaluate the theoretical and empirical research literature
Additionally, students will practise and develop the following generic skills:
* taking notes effectively, in classes and from their own readings
* researching focused topics in appropriate books, journals and electronic sources
* constructing a coherent argument based on a range of theoretical and empirical evidence