Language Learning

Course goals

The successful student:

• is aware of the most important (theoretical) concepts in the field of L1 and (guided and unguided) L2 acquisition;
• is able to further explore one of the topics discussed in a paper and thus demonstrates the ability to conduct literature research into language learning processes;
• is able to interpret the literature on language learning processes in an educational context.

Content

The course addresses the question of how language learning processes come about. More specifically, the following topics will be covered:
- The difference between T1 and T2 acquisition
- The difference between spontaneous and directed T2 acquisition
- Differences between learners: learner characteristics, interlanguage and ultimate attainment
- Bilingualism and its influence on learning a third language
- Language learning disorders: how, for example, do dyslexic students deal with the requirements of Modern Foreign Language Education?