Understanding Qualitative Research and Writing in Language Studies will give students the opportunity to explore the different types of qualitative research methodologies used within applied linguistics or language and culture research. Emphasis will be given to an examination of what counts as evidence within a qualitative research framework and how qualitative research evidence can be evaluated. Students will examine the range of qualitative research methodologies relevant to applied linguistics or language and culture research, including the case study, ethnography, participant observation, interviews, questionnaires, discourse analysis.

This is a core course for the Master of Applied Linguistics.

On satisfying the expectations of the course, you should be able to

1.     Critically read and evaluate qualitative research methodologies within applied linguistics or languages and culture research.

2.     Write a well-structured, well-supported and correctly referenced literature review on an applied linguistics or languages and culture topic.

3.    Present a clear, well-structured literature review of an applied linguistics or languages and culture topic. 

Critical summary of journal article (750 words) (10%) (Learning Outcome 1)

Group critical appraisal of journal articles using online discussion forum (1000 words) (25%) (Learning Outcome 1)

Participation in writing development workshop (5% for each workshop) (Learning Outcomes 1, 2)

Literature review project (3000 words) (40%) (Learning Outcomes 1, 2)

Literature review oral presentation (10%) (Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3)

The course will consist of a weekly seminar of 2 hours. Three 2 hour writing seminars are scheduled for weeks 3, 8 and 11. Students can expect to do 6 - 7 hours outside of class time.

Heigham, J. and R. Croker (eds) (2009) Qualitative Research in Applied Linguistics. Hampshire: Palgrave Macmillan.

No specific technological equipment is required.