Course Overview
goals of the course
This course is designed to give you an overview of the key theories and concepts in the field of Second Language Acquisition (SLA) with specific focus on Instructed Second Language Acquisition (ISLA). Specifically, we will explore:
The different theories or approaches towards studying how people acquire additional languages other than their first language
The different methods that are available for investigating the process of second language development
The processes that learners go through as they develop their abilities to communicate in their second language in instructional settings
How this knowledge can be used to improve second language teaching
structure of this course
It is my belief that the best learning occurs in contexts in which students can actively engage with material in a supportive, collaborative environment. To that end, I've set this course up to involve a mix of readings, lectures, group discussions, and hands-on tasks. The course is also a flipped classroom course. That means that students complete the readings and watch my pre-recorded lectures before class. This will help prepare them for class meetings that involve discussions and other hands-on tasks designed to help students engage with the material and develop a deeper knowledge of that material.
Textbook
The main textbook we will use for this course is:
Loewen, L. (2020). Introduction to Instructed Second Language Acquisition. New York: Routledge.
This book is available as an e-book through the University of Florida library system.
Any additional readings used in the course will be uploaded to Canvas.
Course Modules & schedule
The course consists of 10 modules covering different topics related to or within the field of SLA. Each module roughly corresponds to one week of the semester.
Introduction to SLA: In this module, we will go over some of the basic terms and key ideas in the field of SLA. We will also discuss the different methods SLA researchers use to examine second language (L2) development.
Explaining L2 Acquisition: In this module, we will will discuss the theories that attempt to explain the process of second language (L2) acquisition. This will also include discussion of first language acquisition and the the theories that attempt to explain it.
Nature of L2 Knowledge: In this module, we will discuss the different types of L2 knowledge that learners may develop
Interaction in SLA: In this module, we will discuss how interacting with others in an L2 can affect a learner's L2 development
Focus on Form: In this module, we will discuss instructional approaches for addressing grammar in L2 development
Individual Differences: In this module, we will discuss how individual differences such as age, motivation, and aptitude can affect someone's L2 development.
Contexts of Learning: In this module, we will discuss the effects that different learning contexts can have on L2 development.
L2 Grammar: In this module, we will discuss the different processes that learners go through as they acquire L2 grammar.
L2 Vocabulary: In this module, we will explore how L2 learners acquire the vocabulary necessary to communicate in their L2.
L2 Pronunciation: In this module, how L2 learners acquire the ability to pronounce the sounds of their L2.
For a detailed schedule of the modules, including related readings and course learning tasks, click here. (Spring 2024 Syllabus)