Course content

The course introduces students to the current key theoretical and methodological perspectives on English language development in multicultural and multilingual settings. The purpose is to cultivate advanced and solid insight into current issues on English language acquisition in diverse multilingual contexts to meet the on-going societal developments. The course places special emphasis on developing critical engagement with theory through the application of critical thinking and problem-solving techniques in order to address new issues and new data. Through gaining a thorough understanding of current research trends on the field, students will be able to integrate them into their practice to optimize teaching experience.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

The student has

• advanced knowledge of current linguistic methodologies, trends, and approaches to English language development in multicultural and multilingual settings
• extensive knowledge of the key phenomena and factors in English language acquisition in multilingual settings from a theoretical and cognitive perspective
• broadened knowledge of how to support the literacy and English language learning development of students from multilingual backgrounds
• in-depth understanding of the multicultural and multilingual situation in Norway and the implications for Primary and Lower Secondary Teacher Education for Years 1-7 and 5-10

Skills

The student can

• appreciate and engage with existing theories and methods in research on English language development in multicultural and multilingual settings
• critically assess national and international research on key issues and approaches to English language acquisition and apply this knowledge into his/her professional practice.

General competence

The student can

• read and understand scientific articles on internal and external linguistic processes in multicultural and multilingual communities and linguistic processes in foreign language acquisition
• communicate extensive independent work and master linguistic terminology
• apply his/her knowledge and skills in new linguistic areas to conduct advanced assignments and projects

Learning methods and activities

The course will include lectures, individual and group assignment work, discussions, and oral presentations. All students are expected to contribute actively.

Compulsory assignments

• Obligatory course work according to course description

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

Completed English 2 or equivalent.

Required previous knowledge

Candidate must have successfully passed English 1 and completed English 2 to begin Cycle 2 courses. Passing is understood as the student completing the course and passing the examination. Completed is understood as having all obligatory coursework approved and qualifying the student for the course examination.

Course materials

A syllabus and reading list will be available on the digital learning platform before the course starts.