ATS3816 Language learning and multilingualism

Whether we are fluent bilinguals or simply know a few phrases of another language, no one is fully monolingual. In this unit we explore the process of becoming multilingual – whether this occurs in traditional foreign language classrooms or through immersive experiences such as study abroad or speaking multiple languages at home.  We consider the motivations people bring to second/additional language learning and the effect of different learning environments. We also look critically at the concept of ‘second’ languages and different ways of conceptualising and measuring multilingualism. Students reflect on their own language learning experience and multilingual abilities and design and carry out a research project in an area of language learning/ multilingualism of interest to them.