Research Design in (Applied) Linguistics is important for anyone who wants to undertake research in applied linguistics or linguistics. It is an introductory course designed to enable students to acquire an understanding of both qualitative and quantitative research methods used in linguistics and applied linguistics. It provides students with the basic skills for carrying out their research. Issues covered will include collecting, describing and interpreting data and reporting research findings. When discussing quantitative approaches (statistics), emphasis will be on the conceptual aspects of such procedures rather than on mechanical arithmetic aspects. Students will be given practical experience in the use of computers for statistical analysis.

This course is compulsory for graduate students who wish to undertake further research (thesis or sub-thesis) in any field of applied linguistics. It is recommended for graduate students who wish to undertake further research in linguistics. Students should consult with the convenor of Linguistics or Applied Linguistics or their potential supervisor as to whether or not they are required to take the course.

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

1. Work in a group to critically compare and discriminate between different research methodologies in linguistics and applied linguistics.
2. Critically assess the methodology (qualitative or quantitative) of a research project within your own discipline area.
3. Critically assess the appropriateness of various methodological approaches in published applied linguistics articles.
4. Carry out descriptive and statistical (quantitative) analysis of small data sets.
5. Design, carry out and present (in both a written and oral format) a small project related to your own research interests.

Participate in an Online discussion (25%), descriptive statistics assignment (10%), statistical analysis assignment (20%), and a 2,500 - 3000 word small research. Project due in the exam period (45%). Passing of the course is conditional on students passing all assessment items.

This course has a 2-hour lecture and a 1-hour tutorial. The tutorial commences in the 3rd week of semester. In addition, students are expected to attend seminars within the linguistics and applied linguistics program.

Students can expect to undertake 7 - 8  hours of study per week outside of class time.

This course introduces graduate students to research methodologies in applied linguistics and linguistics. Students are not required to have completed any prior course before enrolling in this course. However, students will find the course most beneficial if they are currently engaged in their own research project.

Nunan, David (1992) Research Methods in Language Learning. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge

Students will be given a full reading list at the beginning of the semester.

Other than normal internet access to Wattle, no special equipment is required to access materials to complete the course. Students will be taught how to use a statistical package (SPSS). SPSS is available in all computer labs at the ANU.