Introduction to Applied Linguistics and TESOL (FutureLearn)

You’ll explore real-world examples of applied linguistics, such as forensic linguistics and language assessment. You’ll look at the field’s impact on important issues - for example, reducing gender bias in language use and simplifying legal language.
You’ll find out what applied linguists do through a series of case studies. Specialists will work through problems and show you applied linguistic research methods to solve them.
What topics will you cover?

• Have you ever met an applied linguist?
• Language and the big decisions in life
• Inspiring language learning
• The social role of pronunciation
• Investigating language in use
• Joining the Applied Linguistics and TESOL community at Leicester

What will you achieve?
By the end of the course, you'll be able to...

• Demonstrate understanding of the key areas of applied linguistics and how these can be related to language teaching and learning.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the fundamentals of applied linguistics, including language structure, language acquisition and language use in relation to culture, society, communication.
• Explore the role of language within the broader field of communication, particularly in language teaching and learning.
• Collect language data, organize it appropriately, and carry out initial linguistic analysis of that data.
• Reflect on and value diverse perspectives on language use and language users in society.
• Contribute knowledgeably to discussions on contemporary linguistic issues in a multilingual society.

Who is the course for?
This course is designed for:

• anyone interested in linguistics and language teaching, and thinking of a career in these fields
• people considering a postgraduate degree in applied linguistics or Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
• professionals already working in applied linguistics or related fields, who want an update on current thinking and practice.