230339 Social and Psychological Aspects of Language Learning (S) (WiSe 2014/2015)

This course will build on the course Introduction to Second Language Acquisition in BM3 and Introduction to English Language Teaching Methodology in PM1. It will consider theories of how foreign languages are learned and related research findings. These theories will include in particular nativist, cognitive and interactional theories. The implications of these theories and research findings for teaching methods will be assessed. In a further step learner variables which influence foreign language learning will be reviewed. These will include age, aptitude, attitudes to the language and its speakers, motivaton to learn, learning style, personality, beliefs about language learning, self-regulation, learning strategies and communication strategies. External factors such as learning environment, exposure, instruction and support will also be surveyed. Ideas of self-directed learning, learner autonomy as well as learning the language through content teaching will be explored. Finally, we will assess to what extent the language teacher can and should influence language learning motivation and language learning success positively.