Introduction to Applied Linguistics

Catalog description

This course introduces first year students in the LGIS and TESOL specializations to critical issues, perspectives, and practices central to the study of applied linguistics. The purpose of this course is to build a preliminary conceptual framework and strong practical foundation for understanding the interactional dynamics of intercultural encounters and the socio-cognitive dimensions of language education. Through weekly readings, brief lectures, and discussions, students will explore the origins and purposes of applied linguistics as an academic discipline, analyze some ways in which applied linguists have conceptualized language and language learning, and consider how perspectives from applied linguistics can be used to understand and address questions and problems involving language in educational, institutional, and community settings. In addition, through in-class activities, short homework assignments, and focused writing tasks, students will examine, engage in, and reflect on an array of linguistic issues and practices central to the work of applied linguistics and begin to form their own identities as applied linguists.