Course content

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.

Learning outcome

The student should develop a deeper understanding of the historical development of central areas and perspectives, be able to see relationships between the various traditions of research, and develop a disciplinary-historical perspective on relevant questions in contemporary applied linguistics.

Learning methods and activities

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.

Compulsory assignments

• 2 approved exercises
• Obligatory participation in response group

Recommended previous knowledge

Bachelor in Applied Linguistics

Credit reductions