MA Applied Linguistics with TESOL

Core Modules

You will study four core modules. You must study the following two modules:

Describing Language

This module provides a grounding in the analysis of the lexis and grammar of English. You are introduced to essential concepts and terminology in the field and gain practice in analyzing naturally occurring language using the models (e.g. pattern grammar) discussed. There is some emphasis on the application of such analysis to the study of language in a social context.

Syllabus Design & Language Teaching

This module critically evaluates a number of different syllabus designs and shows how different types of syllabi can be matched with particular teaching situations. We will be examining the relationship between teaching material and the syllabus and students will have the opportunity to design a syllabus for a specific teaching situation based on data obtained from a needs analysis. The module will also focus on developing specific teaching skills, in particular:

• Planning and evaluating a language lesson
• Presenting and practicing vocabulary and grammatical structures
• Using educational technology and other teaching equipment
• Asking questions, eliciting responses, and correcting errors
• Teaching through task-based learning
• Teaching reading and writing
• Teaching listening and speaking (including pronunciation)
• Managing classroom interaction and dealing with problem behavior

ning and speaking (including pronunciation); Managing classroom interaction and dealing with problem behavior

You can then choose between either

Research Methods in Applied Linguistics

This module aims to provide you with a grounding in approaches to and methods of research in Applied Linguistics.

Or

Classroom Research Methods

This module introduces the main concepts and techniques used in research in and into second-language classrooms. In essence, this involves looking at two kinds of research traditions:

• experimental research, which is often quantitative, and involves looking at linguistic or other outcomes, often independently of classroom interaction, with the purpose of making general statements about, say, how language is (best) learned and/or acquired
• ‘action’ research, which is usually qualitative, and involves examining specific classroom interactions in a single period of time, generally with the intent of modifying or improving teacher behavior

The module examines the kinds of instruments used to examine and measure factors that influence or are part of classroom events, such as the investigation of attitudes and beliefs and the observation of interactions in the classroom. These research instruments will include questionnaires, interviews, classroom observation and transcription, learning diaries, journals, etc.

Finally, students are given the opportunity to apply their knowledge of research design and research instruments by designing a piece of research that could form the basis of their dissertation or teaching project.

You will also take one of the following:

Sociolinguistics

This module explores the relationship between language and society, examining how variation in language structure is distributed across different aspects of society, for example, the correlation between the use of particular linguistic forms and social class groups, genders, age groups, and geographical areas. The module considers the associations that develop between aspects of a speaker's identity and different linguistic forms, the role of prestige (overt and covert), stigmatization, and the significance of one's social networks and communities, and how these facets of variation lead to changes in the English language.

Or

Psychology of Language

The aim of this module is to provide an overview of major topics and issues in psycholinguistics and cognitive studies of language. We look at how people produce and understand language; how language is organised in the mind and brain; the embodied and metaphorical basis for language; the relationship between language and thought and the significance of linguistic diversity; the development and acquisition of language; and the connection between language and gesture.

Optional Modules

You will also choose two optional modules from a range which typically includes:

• Bilingualism and Multilingualism in the TESOL Classroom
• Corpus-Assisted Language Learning
• Corpus Linguistics
• Globalization and Language Education
• Issues in Intercultural Communication
• Language and New Media
• Language and Politics
• Using Literature to Teach the English Language

Dissertation

In addition to your taught modules, you will conduct a piece of independent research with the support of a supervisor, culminating in a 15,000-word dissertation.

Your degree will provide excellent preparation for your future career, but this can also be enhanced by a range of employability support services offered by the University and the College of Arts and Law.

The University's Careers Network provides expert guidance and activities, especially for postgraduates, which will help you achieve your career goals. The College of Arts and Law also has a dedicated careers and employability team that offers tailored advice and a programme of College-specific career events.

You will be encouraged to make the most of your postgraduate experience and will have the opportunity to:

• Receive one-to-one career advice, including guidance on your job applications, writing your CV and improving your interview technique, whether you are looking for a career inside or outside of academia
• Meet employers face-to-face at on-campus recruitment fairs and employer presentations
• Attend an annual programme of careers fairs, skills workshops and conferences, including bespoke events for postgraduates in the College of Arts and Law
• Take part in a range of activities to demonstrate your knowledge and skills to potential employers and enhance your CV

What's more, you will be able to access our full range of career support for up to 2 years after graduation.

Postgraduate employability: English Language and Linguistics

Birmingham's English Language and Linguistics postgraduates develop a broad range of transferable skills that are highly valued by employers, particularly in relation to verbal and written communication. They also develop crucial skills in organisation, time management, analysis and interpretation of information.

Many of our graduates enter roles for which their programme has prepared them, such as becoming a language analyst or data scientist. Others use their transferable skills in a wide range of occupations including teaching, research administration and events.

We have three teaching terms per year, the autumn, spring, and summer terms. Term dates can be found on our website.

As a full-time student, you will typically take three modules in each of the first two terms, followed by your dissertation. If you are a part-time student, you will typically take three modules each year, followed by your dissertation.

Each module represents a total of 200 hours of study time, including preparatory reading, homework, and assignment preparation.