MPhil in Education (Research in Second Language Education)

University of Cambridge

The route adopts a broad definition of the term "second language education". It considers issues relating to the teaching and learning of modern languages in English schools and communities as well as issues relating to the teaching of English as a second, foreign, or additional language across the world. The route enables students to combine linguistic and social analysis in their research.

The route aims to combine an in-depth critical understanding of the main currents of conceptual thinking in the literature on second language learning with practical training in aspects of L2 empirical research. The aims of the route are as follows:

• Examine key theoretical perspectives which have influenced recent research in second language education and to relate these to the wider context of educational research
• Analyse and develop effective methodologies in conducting empirical research in second language teaching and learning in schools and communities
• Develop critical skills with respect to the literature on research in second language teaching and learning, focusing mainly on core readings which provide instructive examples of empirical research
• Investigate the language education issues in an international and comparative perspective.

By the end of the programme, students will have:

• a comprehensive understanding of research techniques, and a thorough knowledge of the literature applicable to their specific educational domain;
• demonstrated originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field;
• shown abilities in the critical evaluation of current research and research techniques and methodologies; and
• demonstrated self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and acted autonomously in the planning and implementation of research.