Understanding language and learning

This unit is an introduction to the study of language. It explores key theories on the nature of language and covers a range of linguistic, sociocultural and political/ideological perspectives on language learning. In this unit you will reflect on ideas around language-as-system and language-as-practice and more broadly, on the communicative repertoires of speakers. The unit recognises the complexity of language use in the contemporary world and engages with recent developments in bi/multilingualism. You will explore how language is learnt both in formal and informal settings. Opportunities will be provided for you to apply knowledge gained in the unit to your own experiences and to critically analyse your views of language and learning.