LG513-7-AU-CO:
Individual Differences in L2 Learning
PLEASE NOTE: This module is inactive. Visit the Module Directory to view modules and variants offered during the current academic year.
2023/24
Language and Linguistics
Colchester Campus
Autumn
Postgraduate: Level 7
Inactive
Thursday 05 October 2023
Friday 15 December 2023
15
22 March 2022
Requisites for this module
(none)
(none)
(none)
(none)
(none)
This module focuses on selected psychological factors – so-called individual differences – that interact with the processes and outcomes of second (L2) or additional language learning. You will become familiar with concepts such as language learning aptitude, working memory, cognitive and learning style, language learning strategies and metacognition. We will discuss the definitions and measurement of these factors, their relationship with each other and with language learning achievement, and their practical relevance in the L2 classroom.
Drawing on examples from recent research, we will consider how individual differences can be investigated empirically, with specific emphasis on the use of questionnaires and interviews. You will have the opportunity to experience various measures in practice, both through in-class exercises and the assignments you will complete for this module.
This module focuses on selected psychological factors – so-called individual differences – that interact with the processes and outcomes of second (L2) or additional language learning. You will become familiar with concepts such as language learning aptitude, working memory, cognitive and learning style, language learning strategies and metacognition. We will discuss the definitions and measurement of these factors, their relationship with each other and with language learning achievement, and their practical relevance in the L2 classroom.
Drawing on examples from recent research, we will consider how individual differences can be investigated empirically, with specific emphasis on the use of questionnaires and interviews. You will have the opportunity to experience various measures in practice, both through in-class exercises and the assignments you will complete for this module.
By the end of the module, you will have attained an overview of a range of cognitive variables that are relevant in the field of L2 learning. You will also have got some insight into how the theoretical definitions and the measurement of these variables have changed over time. In addition, you will have developed an understanding of how to prepare questionnaires and interviews, and you will have had some hands-on experience with data collection, in preparation for your MA project work conducted later in the year.
We will have one 2-hour class each week for 10 weeks. Approximately one hour will be taught as a lecture and the other hour as a seminar. Lectures provide an overview of key theoretical insights, empirical research findings, and methodological issues; seminars are based on student-centred tasks such as follow-up exercises and discussion of issues brought up in the lectures and associated module readings. Discussion and questions are encouraged throughout.
The above list is indicative of the essential reading for the course.
The library makes provision for all reading list items, with digital provision where possible, and these resources are shared between students.
Further reading can be obtained from this module's
reading list.
Assessment items, weightings and deadlines
| Coursework / exam |
Description |
Deadline |
Coursework weighting |
Additional coursework information
N/A
Exam format definitions
- Remote, open book: Your exam will take place remotely via an online learning platform. You may refer to any physical or electronic materials during the exam.
- In-person, open book: Your exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may refer to any physical materials such as paper study notes or a textbook during the exam. Electronic devices may not be used in the exam.
- In-person, open book (restricted): The exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may refer only to specific physical materials such as a named textbook during the exam. Permitted materials will be specified by your department. Electronic devices may not be used in the exam.
- In-person, closed book: The exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may not refer to any physical materials or electronic devices during the exam. There may be times when a paper dictionary,
for example, may be permitted in an otherwise closed book exam. Any exceptions will be specified by your department.
Your department will provide further guidance before your exams.
Overall assessment
Reassessment
Module supervisor and teaching staff
Dr Karen Roehr-Brackin, email: kroehr@essex.ac.uk.
Karen Roehr-Brackin
4.334; kroehr@essex.ac.uk
No
No
Yes
Dr Vivienne Esther Rogers
Available via Moodle
Of 20 hours, 20 (100%) hours available to students:
0 hours not recorded due to service coverage or fault;
0 hours not recorded due to opt-out by lecturer(s).
Disclaimer: The University makes every effort to ensure that this information on its Module Directory is accurate and up-to-date. Exceptionally it can
be necessary to make changes, for example to programmes, modules, facilities or fees. Examples of such reasons might include a change of law or regulatory requirements,
industrial action, lack of demand, departure of key personnel, change in government policy, or withdrawal/reduction of funding. Changes to modules may for example consist
of variations to the content and method of delivery or assessment of modules and other services, to discontinue modules and other services and to merge or combine modules.
The University will endeavour to keep such changes to a minimum, and will also keep students informed appropriately by updating our programme specifications and module directory.
The full Procedures, Rules and Regulations of the University governing how it operates are set out in the Charter, Statutes and Ordinances and in the University Regulations, Policy and Procedures.