Spring 2020 - LING 480 D100

Topics in Linguistics I (3)

Language Learning and Technology

Class Number: 3157

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2020: Fri, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    Requirements will vary according to the topic offered.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Investigation of a selected area of linguistic research. This course may be repeated once for credit if the topic is different.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course examines research on the theory and practice of using digital media and the Internet (1) for teaching and learning second languages and cultures and (2) for developing digital literacies in general. We will discuss principles for integrating technology into second/foreign language teaching and for designing, developing and evaluating digital instructional materials and learner tasks.

The new millennium generation of “digital natives” live and breathe digital. Digital technologies have become ubiquitous and the explosion of digital artefacts has also influenced the ways we learn and teach second/foreign languages. The language laboratory of the 70s, for instance, has been replaced by technologies that allow language learners not only to engage in interactive and adaptive learning activities independent of time and place but also to connect with other learners and native speakers like never before.

In this course, you will learn about the cross-disciplinary foundations of technology and language learning/teaching, possibilities and limitations of computer technology in language learning, and some specifics of the design and use of language learning technologies. The instructional value of a wide range of digital media will be examined, including programs specifically designed to enhance language skills (L2 Vocabulary and Grammar, L2 Speaking and Listening, L2 Reading and Writing), digital tools for task-based and project-based learning, Games, Gaming (and Virtual Environments) for Language/Culture Learning, data-driven learning (L2 Corpora; Concordances for L2 Learning) as well as the role of Agency, Autonomy and Identity in Language/Culture Learning Online.

You will be able to engage in activities and group projects that will allow you to design your own digital media by integrating them into the language learning curriculum. Class time will be divided between lectures, student presentations, discussions and computer sessions. No programming skills are required.

Grading

  • Class presentations 20%
  • Quizzes 25%
  • Assignments and in-class activities 25%
  • Final project 30%
  • No Final Exam

NOTES:

PREREQUISITES: LING 360 and 9 Upper Division LING Units. The instructor highly recommends LING 362.

It is strongly recommended that you see the Student Advisor regarding your degree requirements at least two semesters before you plan to graduate.  Unless you meet both faculty and major/minor requirements, your graduation cannot be approved.


Students should familiarize themselves with the Department's Standards on Class Management and Student Responsibilities at http://www.sfu.ca/linguistics/undergraduate/standards.html.  
Please note that a grade of “FD” (Failed-Dishonesty) may be assigned as a penalty for academic dishonesty.
All student requests for accommodations for their religious practices must be made in writing by the end of the first week of classes or no later than one week after a student adds a course.
Students requiring accommodations as a result of a disability must contact the Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca).

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

The course readings are based on articles and book chapters that will be provided in Canvas. The majority of these come from open-access journals (e.g., LLT) or are available in the SFU library.


Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS