Aims
Aims
In this module students will gain an overview of current research in second language phonology, taking in both the range of methods used to investigate second language phonology as well as the range of theoretical interpretations of the results of such studies. The module will also provide an introduction to the broader context of second language phonology, such as the ethical and/or pedagogical implications of second language phonology research.
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
Subject content
- understand the main current theories of second language phonological acquisition, and how these relate to broader theories of second language acquisition;
- explain how different types of evidence are used to support arguments in support of different theoretical positions;
- give an account of the range of factors which may result in an individual having a non-native-like accent;
- demonstrate awareness of the social and personal implications of having a non-native-like accent;
- design and carry out a small scale empirical study in the sphere of second language phonological acquisition.
Academic and graduate skills
- demonstrate the ability to manage a project and bring it to completion;
- evaluate competing interpretations of evidence;
- develop a hypothesis from the predictions of a theory or model;
- relate abstact theoretical concepts to real-world applications.
Programme
Programme
Teaching programme
The programme will consist of four topics:
- Key concepts: the L1 filter vs. age as factors
- Methods: investigating production and perception in second language phonology
- Interpretations: L1 transfer vs. markedness vs. the perceptual filter
- Applications: ethical and pedagogical implications
For each topic there is one lecture plus two seminars and two practicals. Practicals and seminars will also be used for students to develop work for assessment (design and implementation of a small scale study in second language phonology).
Teaching materials
Key texts:
- Colantoni, L., Steele, J, & Escudero, P. (2015). Second language speech: theory and practice. Cambridge University Press.
- Derwing, T. M., & Munro, M. J. (2015). Pronunciation Fundamentals: Evidence-based perspectives for L2 teaching and research. John Benjamins.
- Hansen Edwards, J.G. & Zampini, M.L. (2008). Phonology and second language acquisition. John Benjamins.
as well as set readings from the primary research literature.