Workshop "doing Research in the L2 Classroom: Methods and Tools"
A.Y. 2024/2025
Learning objectives
The workshop aims to illustrate some qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, along with the related tools, for the design of small research projects on the learning and teaching of a second language, which may be intended for a master's dissertation or to be carried out during teaching or tutoring experiences.
Expected learning outcomes
At the end of the workshop, students will have acquired basic knowledge related to four types of methodologies used in research on the acquisition and teaching of a second language (L2): observational, experimental, case study, and action research. They will be able to analyze and evaluate examples of tools related to each type of research (such as observation grids, questionnaires, tests) to collaboratively design a small study in its main phases according to a specific research methodology.
Lesson period: Second semester
Assessment methods: Giudizio di approvazione
Assessment result: superato/non superato
Single course
This course can be attended as a single course.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
Second semester
Course syllabus
Three types of methodologies used in the research on the acquisition and teaching of a second language (L2) will be presented: observational, case study, and experimental. For each methodology, the following aspects will be analyzed: main characteristics, tools for data collection, data analysis procedures, advantages, and disadvantages.
1. What is meant by 'research' in the educational context
2. Characteristics and phases of the research process
3. Research approaches: qualitative and quantitative
4. Observational research and tools
5. The case study and tools
6. Experimental research and tools
7. How to develop a research project: examples
1. What is meant by 'research' in the educational context
2. Characteristics and phases of the research process
3. Research approaches: qualitative and quantitative
4. Observational research and tools
5. The case study and tools
6. Experimental research and tools
7. How to develop a research project: examples
Prerequisites for admission
The workshop will be held in Italian, with supporting materials in both Italian and English. Prior coursework in language teaching can provide useful preliminary and complementary skills. Erasmus students should contact the instructor at the beginning of the workshop.
Teaching methods
The workshop adopts an applied approach. The sessions alternate between brief presentations by the instructor and guided activities focusing on reflection and analysis. There will be space for guided observation of recorded lesson examples and their transcriptions, as well as the analysis of tools used in educational research. Students will have the opportunity to participate in a discussion forum on the MyAriel course website and to work in groups to prepare a small research project. Each student will take turns keeping a diary for each workshop session.
Teaching Resources
· Examples of recorded lessons and transcripts
· Examples of tools used for data collection (observation grids, interviews, questionnaires, tests, etc.)
· Slides for introducing the topics covered, brief supplementary readings
· Examples of abstracts of studies in the research on learning and teaching a second language (L2)
· References for further reading
· Suggested textbook: Benati, A. 2015. Key methods in Second language Research. Equinox Publishing.
· Examples of tools used for data collection (observation grids, interviews, questionnaires, tests, etc.)
· Slides for introducing the topics covered, brief supplementary readings
· Examples of abstracts of studies in the research on learning and teaching a second language (L2)
· References for further reading
· Suggested textbook: Benati, A. 2015. Key methods in Second language Research. Equinox Publishing.
Assessment methods and Criteria
There is no final exam, but regular attendance is required (at least 80% of meetings) along with participation in the proposed activities. Students will take turns compiling a diary of the laboratory activities and participating in a collaborative activity that involves writing a small research project. The final evaluation is expressed with a judgment ('pass' or 'fail').
Educational website(s)
Professor(s)