Overview

In order to fulfill the aims of the module,students will learn about the following:

Issues relating to various definitions within the field

Theories of language acquisition and L2 learning

Psychological and linguistic characteristics of bi/multilinguals

Advantages and disadvantages of bi/multilingualism

Factors influencing individuals' language attainment

Assessing language abilities among young bi/multilinguals

Social use of language among adults and children: problems and possible solutions

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -D - Satisfactory knowledge and understanding of academic research within the field that discuss the nature, characteristics and psychological, social and educational needs of bi/multilinguals. Ability to identify the evidence that suggests advantages and disadvantages to knowing more than one language. Ability ot show understanding of the factors influencing patterns of language use. Ability to note the relationship between language theories, the characteristics of the speakers and his/her environment, and language use, language skills and methods of assessing language.

-good -B - Broad knowledge and good understanding of academic research within the field discussing the nature, characteristics and psychological, social and educational needs of bi/multilinguals. Ability to identify and discuss relevant evidence to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of knowing more than one language. Demonstrate good knowledge of the factors influencing patterns of language use. Ability to highlight the relationship between language theories, the characteristics of the individual and his/her environment, and language use, language skills and language assessment meaningfully.

-excellent -A - Ability to identify, and discuss a number of ideologies within the field effectively and purposely when discussing the nature, characteristics, and the psychological, social and educations needs of bi/multilinguals. Ability to identify and discuss critically the evidence available discussing the advantage and disadvantages of knowing more than one language. Able to discuss the evidence that highlight the factors that influence on patterns of language use meaningfully. Ability to discuss the relationship between language theories, the characteristics and the individual and his/her environment, and language use, language skills and methods of assessment meaningfully.

Learning Outcomes

• Able to critically analyze the research evidence within the field of bi- and multilingualism in childhood.

• Able to identify the factors that impact on individuals' linguistic achievements and consider critically when and how to define language fluency and competence among bi- and multilingual speakers

• Able to recognize and critically analyze the factors that impact upon patterns of language use.

• Able to recognize and evaluate different bilingual teaching methods that exist world-wide.

• Demonstrate sound knowledge and understanding of the psychological, sociological and educational nature, features and needs of bi- and multilinguals

• Recognize and critically evaluate the evidence supporting the costs and benefits of having two or more languages