Studies in L2 pragmatic acquisition
Studies in second language acquisition
This special research seminar examines how second languages (L2) are used in contexts, To be specific, we will survey how learners use L2 in speech acts, storytelling, discourse and conversation activities. In so doing, we will consider learners' first language, proficiency level and learning environment as possible factors influencing their performances.
The course will run mainly in Japanese, but we will read articles in English and Japanese, so students should have some knowledge of English to be able to read the assigned articles. The seminar will be open to both Japanese and foreign students, at graduate or undergraduate level, ideally those with some background in the conduct of research. It would also be beneficial for them to have some understanding of the theories of second language acquisition (SLA). We will have guest speakers' lectures during this summer seminar.
Prior to the start of the seminar, each participant should prepare themselves by reading all the assigned articles. We will assign readings to the participants of the seminar a week prior to the start of the seminar, and they are expected to read and critique those studies well enough to lead the discussion.
As a final project, students will design a study and undertake preliminary efforts to identify relevant background literature and pilot possible instruments that could be used in the collection of data. They will present the above on the last day of the seminar.