Essentials in Second Language Acquisition Theories

Course Available
2 Units
Online Self-Paced

Course Description

Develop a Deeper Understanding in the Field of Second Language Acquisition (SLA)

In this course, you will trace the historical development of the theories and concepts in the field of Second Language Acquisition, and study the implications of these theories in the language classroom. Areas of focus in this course include age factors, psychological factors, sociocultural factors, and linguistic factors that play a role in second language acquisition.

Course Details

Number of Units: 2.0 units of graduate level extension credit(s) in semester hours

Who Should Attend: This course provides continuing education to recent college graduates, career changers and educators who wish to develop their competencies in the field of TESOL.

Course Materials: Text, Principles of Language Learning and Teaching by H. Douglas Brown, available at your local bookstore or online at Amazon.com.

Technical Requirements

Course Options

Course Date Units Price
ELTS-X701 – 043 Start now, you have 180 days to complete this course once enrolled 2 $317

Essentials in Second Language Acquisition Theories

Start now, you have 180 days to complete this course once enrolled
2
$317
Online Self-Paced
Kathryn Manthorpe

Once you have enrolled in your course, log in to your account to access the course Welcome Letter, which includes directions on how to access the Online Orientation and your online course.

What You Will Learn

  • Analyze schools of thought in language teaching
  • Identify historical influences that inform language teaching
  • Describe theories of first language acquisition
  • Compare first and second language acquisition
  • Analyze the role of age in language acquisition
  • Describe general human learning theories and role in language teaching and learning
  • Explain factors that influence learning
  • Describe how learning styles and personality influence language learning
  • Identify strategies that people use to learn languages
  • Describe sociocultural factors that influence language learning
  • Describe communicative competence and identify the characteristics that define a communicative approach to language teaching and learning
  • Identify features of pragmatics and its role in second language teaching and learning

Instructors

Professional development courses offered by the University of San Diego’s Division of Professional & Continuing Education are taught by faculty that possess a depth and breadth of academic and real-world professional experience.

Why USD?

The Professional and Continuing Education program nurtures key partnerships on the local, national, and international level. The goal is to better serve working professionals who seek to enhance or build their careers and help achieve their highest value and potential. Contact us today to learn more.

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Learning Method Information

Courses offer a convenient, yet rigorous style of learning that allows you to structure your education to suit your schedule while keeping you on pace toward achieving your educational.

Online Self-Paced

Our online self-paced courses are designed to provide flexibility and autonomy for learners. Unlike traditional classroom methods, which require attendance at scheduled times, self-paced courses allow you to progress through the material at your own speed within a six-month period from the time of enrollment.  Your instructor will provide feedback via written responses on your assignments and exams. Grades are based on completed projects, assignments and exams.

Key differences from traditional classroom methods:

  • No scheduled class times or required attendance.
  • No assigned due dates for assignments; you set your own schedule.
  • Asynchronous learning, meaning you can work on assignments anytime.
  • No discussion forums and no interaction with others enrolled in the course.
  • No scheduled class times or required attendance.

Structure of Online Self-Paced Courses:

The content is divided into learning modules, each covering one or more topics. Within each module, you can expect the following components:

  • Module Introduction: Outlines what you can expect to learn in the module.
  • Required Readings and Presentations: Includes textbooks, articles, journals, websites, and audio/video presentations.
  • Assignments: May include written assignments, quizzes, blogs, and other activities based on the readings and presentations.
  • Module Conclusion: Reviews the topics covered and what you should have learned.

Typically, there is a final project, paper, or exam due in the last module that synthesizes all the topics covered throughout the course. The design of the learning modules follows a consistent rhythm to help you manage your time effectively. Grades will be available within two weeks of final submission, transcripts will be automatically mailed out following grades being posted and approved. Please allow 3-4 weeks from when final grades are posted to receive a transcript.

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