How Languages are Learned

How Languages are Learned
Spring for 2016-2017
Faculty:

• 
  Subtirelu, Nicholas
  

This course will introduce you to central questions, theories, debates, and research findings in the areas of first, second, and bilingual language acquisition. For example: 
· What are some of the cognitive benefits of knowing more than one language? Can knowing another language affect the way you think and be intellectually helpful? 
· What stages do children go through in acquiring a first language? 
· Does exposure to more than one language in childhood cause confusion? What can parents do to make it more likely that their children will grow up bilingual? 
· Is it possible to attain ‘native-like’ proficiency if you start learning a language after childhood? 
· How might adults best learn a second language? What is the role of input, interaction and feedback? 
· Are there differences in how languages may best be learned across different contexts (e.g., naturalistic exposure, formal instruction, study abroad)? 
· Is there an important role for technology in second language learning? 

We will critically evaluate and synthesize classic and current work in these areas, as well as consider how theories and empirical findings can inform current educational policies and practices, in other words, how second languages may best be taught. The class will be highly interactive, with a combination of lectures and hands-on group activities to help deepen your understanding of the literature and develop your ability to be a critical consumer of research. I expect you to read critically and come to class ready to discuss, debate and work. 

Students who choose to enroll in the optional 4th-Credit Option for Social Action have the unique opportunity to apply and enhance their understanding of the course content and gain practical experience by working in a community based organization serving disadvantaged or underserved individuals in the DC area (for example, by tutoring ESL students with the DC Schools Project). 
The problem of learning languages is very important today. Foreign languages are socially demanded especially at the present time when the progress in science and technology has led to an explosion of knowledge and has contributed to an overflow of information. The total knowledge of mankind is known to double every seven years. Foreign languages are needed as the main and most efficient means of information exchange of the people of our planet.
Today English is the language of the world. Over 350 million people speak it as a mother tongue. The native speakers of English live in Great Britain, the United States of America, Australia and New Zealand. English is one of the official languages in the Irish Republic, Canada, the South African Republic. As a second language it is used in the former British and US colonies.
It is the major international language for communication in such areas as science, technology, business and mass entertainment. English is one of the official languages of the United Nations Organization and other political organization. It is the language of the literature, education, modern music, international tourism.
Russia is integrating into the world community and the problem of learning English for the purpose of communication is espicially urgent today. Learning a foreing language is not as easy thing. It is a long and slow process that takes a lot of time and patience. But to know English is absolutely necessary for every educated person, for every good specialist.