The course is divided into 6 modules, each covering a different aspect of SLA theory. The first module introduces key terms and concepts in SLA, and the second module discusses the role of the learner in the language acquisition process. The third module covers the role of the environment in SLA, including factors such as input, interaction, and feedback.
The fourth module focuses on cognitive and social factors that influence SLA, including motivation, aptitude, and age. The fifth module discusses the role of culture in language acquisition, including how cultural differences can impact language learning. The final module summarizes the course content and provides suggestions for further learning.
Throughout the course, learners will engage with a variety of multimedia resources, including videos, readings, and quizzes. They will also have opportunities to reflect on their own experiences as language learners and teachers.
By the end of the course, learners will have a solid understanding of the key theories and concepts in SLA and how these can inform their practice as English language teachers.
Course Content:
Teach English Now! Theories of Second Language Acquisition is a Coursera course by Dr. Shane Dixon that consists of 6 modules and multiple lectures within each module. Here is a detailed breakdown of the course content:
Module 1: Introduction to Second Language Acquisition
- Lecture 1.1: Key Terms and Concepts in Second Language Acquisition
- Lecture 1.2: The History of Second Language Acquisition Research
- Lecture 1.3: Language Variation and Change
Module 2: The Role of the Learner in Second Language Acquisition
- Lecture 2.1: Individual Differences in Second Language Learning
- Lecture 2.2: Language Learning Strategies
- Lecture 2.3: Autonomous Language Learning
Module 3: The Role of the Environment in Second Language Acquisition
- Lecture 3.1: Input and Interaction
- Lecture 3.2: Feedback and Corrective Feedback
- Lecture 3.3: Language Learning Contexts
Module 4: Cognitive and Social Factors in Second Language Acquisition
- Lecture 4.1: Motivation and Second Language Learning
- Lecture 4.2: Aptitude and Second Language Learning
- Lecture 4.3: Age and Second Language Learning
Module 5: Culture and Second Language Acquisition
- Lecture 5.1: The Relationship between Culture and Language
- Lecture 5.2: Cultural Differences in Second Language Learning
- Lecture 5.3: Teaching Language and Culture
Module 6: Applying Second Language Acquisition Theory to English Language Teaching
- Lecture 6.1: Using SLA Theory to Inform English Language Teaching
- Lecture 6.2: Challenges and Opportunities for English Language Teaching
- Lecture 6.3: Reflection and Next Steps
Overall, the course includes 18 lectures, each of which is accompanied by a quiz to help learners check their understanding. Additionally, the course includes discussion forums where learners can interact with each other and the course instructors to further explore the course content.
Reviews:
As a former learner of the Teach English Now! Theories of Second Language Acquisition course by Dr. Shane Dixon on Coursera, I can confidently say that it is an excellent course for anyone interested in learning more about second language acquisition theory and its application to English language teaching.
One of the things that I appreciated about this course was the clear structure and organization of the course materials. Each module was broken down into manageable chunks, with clear learning objectives and relevant readings and videos to help reinforce the key concepts. The course also included quizzes and assignments to help learners apply what they had learned and receive feedback from the instructor and their peers.
Dr. Dixon's teaching style was also a highlight of the course. He was engaging and knowledgeable, and his lectures were well-structured and easy to follow. He was also responsive to questions from learners, and took the time to provide thoughtful and detailed feedback on assignments and discussions.
Another thing that I appreciated about the course was the focus on practical applications of SLA theory to English language teaching. The course provided a range of examples and activities that could be adapted to different teaching contexts, and helped me to think more critically about how I could design language learning activities and assessments that were informed by SLA theory.
Overall, I would highly recommend the Teach English Now! Theories of Second Language Acquisition course to anyone looking to deepen their knowledge of SLA theory and its application to English language teaching. The course is well-structured, engaging, and informative, and provides learners with a valuable set of skills and resources for improving their English language teaching practice.
At the time, the course has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars on over 6,319 ratings.
What you'll learn:
After completing the Teach English Now! Theories of Second Language Acquisition course by Dr. Shane Dixon on Coursera, learners will have gained several key skills related to second language acquisition and English language teaching. These include:
-
Knowledge of key theories and concepts in second language acquisition: Learners will have a solid understanding of the major theories and concepts in SLA, including individual differences, language learning strategies, input, interaction, feedback, motivation, aptitude, age, and culture.
-
Ability to apply SLA theory to English language teaching: Learners will be able to use their knowledge of SLA theory to inform their practice as English language teachers. They will have gained insights into how to create effective language learning environments, provide meaningful input and feedback, and motivate learners to engage in the language learning process.
-
Understanding of cultural factors in language learning: Learners will have a deeper appreciation of the role of culture in language learning and teaching. They will be better equipped to create culturally responsive and inclusive language learning environments.
-
Ability to reflect on their own language learning experiences: Through engaging with the course content and participating in discussion forums, learners will have had opportunities to reflect on their own language learning experiences and consider how they can apply this knowledge to their teaching practice.
Overall, completing this course will equip learners with a strong foundation in SLA theory and a range of practical skills that will be valuable for anyone working in the field of English language teaching.
Author:
Dr. Shane Dixon is a highly respected educator and scholar in the field of English language teaching and second language acquisition. He is the Director of the TESOL Program and an Associate Professor of Applied Linguistics at Arizona State University, where he teaches courses on language testing, language program evaluation, and second language acquisition.
Dr. Dixon's research focuses on various aspects of second language acquisition, including the role of input, interaction, and individual differences in language learning. He has published numerous articles and book chapters on these topics and has presented his research at national and international conferences.
In addition to his research, Dr. Dixon is also an experienced English language teacher and teacher educator. He has taught English in a variety of contexts, including community colleges, language schools, and universities, and has trained teachers in the United States and abroad. He is also a frequent presenter at teacher conferences and workshops.
As a former learner of his course, I found Dr. Dixon to be an excellent instructor with a deep understanding of second language acquisition theory and its application to English language teaching. He was able to explain complex concepts in a way that was accessible to learners of all levels, and his feedback on assignments and discussions was always thoughtful and constructive. His expertise and passion for the field were evident in every aspect of the course, and I would highly recommend him as an instructor to anyone interested in learning more about SLA theory and English language teaching.
Requirements:
The Teach English Now! Theories of Second Language Acquisition course by Dr. Shane Dixon on Coursera has the following requirements for learners:
-
Intermediate level of English proficiency: Learners should have a good command of English, both spoken and written, in order to engage with the course materials and participate in discussions with other learners.
-
Basic knowledge of English language teaching: While no prior experience in English language teaching is required, learners should have a basic understanding of the principles and practices of English language teaching.
-
Access to a computer and the internet: The course is delivered online, so learners will need access to a reliable computer and internet connection in order to participate in the course.
-
Commitment to completing the course: The course is self-paced, but learners should be prepared to spend several hours each week engaging with the course materials and completing assignments.
Overall, the requirements for this course are fairly straightforward, and are designed to ensure that learners have the necessary skills and resources to engage with the course content and complete the course successfully.
Register Now!
