• Heinzmann Agten Sybille

• Heinzmann Agten Sybille

This course examines how languages are learned, exploring relevant research in this academic field. Providing the theoretical backbone to modern language teaching methodology, students will learn about mechanisms at work in second language acquisition dealing with theories and research from linguistics, psychology and sociology.

We will compare the natural development of a first language with the challenges learners face when learning a second language later in life. Looking at second language acquisition from a linguistic perspective we will look into different stages of acquisition and their driving forces. At the same time psychological theories will inform us about mental processes shaping acquisition and individual variables, such as age or motivation. Finally, acknowledging that language is deeply intertwined with culture and society, we will examine the social and cultural context of language learning, exploring the crucial role these factors play in shaping students' language abilities. Throughout the course we will connect SLA theories to practical classroom methods.

• Understanding of key theories of how first and second languages are learned
• Knowledge of how language learning is influenced by linguistics, psychology, and individual learner differences
• Application of language learning theories to classroom practice, considering different learning contexts.

A bibliography and a list of assigned readings will be made available in the first week of the semester.  Fromkin et al. Introduction to Language or Yule’s The Study of Language introductory textbooks would constitute a good entry point to the topic.

• Lightbown P.M. & Spada N., (2021). How Languages are Learned. 5th Edition. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
• Saville-Troike M. & Barto K. (2017). Introducing Second Language Acquisition. 3rd Edition. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.