Applied Linguistics: Discipline and Fields

Starting point: When students proceed with their master´s programs, they need a overview of intellectual history and current research within different areas of applied linguistics. Content: The course will cover the main areas in the research history, concentrating on specific fields of research, such as second language research, gender research, research on writing, communication in media, development of communication skills or communication in organizations. These main areas create the background for discussing challenges connected with current research, within certain areas which are being closely looked into by researchers at the Department of language and Communication studies.

KNOWLEDGE:
Candidates:
• Have extensive knowledge of theoretical and methodological developments in applied linguistics, and a thorough understanding of selected areas.
• Have a broad knowledge of intellectual history that enable them to place current research problems and their own research within a wider context.
• Have extensive knowledge of verbal communication that enables them to carry out advanced professional tasks.

SKILLS
Candidates:
• Are able to independently evaluate and reflect upon theories, methods and interpretations.
• Are able to discuss current challenges of research on the basis of reflection and critique.
• Are trained to offer and to make use of response to disciplinary work.
• Have a reflection-based perspective on the relation between theory and practice and are well prepared for collaborating with colleagues from other disciplines and from fields of practice.

Lectures and seminars.
More on assessment: Obligatory exercises have to be approved before the candidate can sit the written exam. The exercises can be an oral presentation and/or a written assignment. The examination is a written paper. Each student may choose between two broad topics of discussion, and addresses one of these. In special cases, students may apply to the Department for alternative assessment in the form of a take-home examination.