English - Free topic A: Foreign Language Acquisition: Theories and Practices (FLA)

The course offers an in-depth exploration of the current theories and principles in teaching and learning English as a foreign language. In this research-based course, special attention is given to the theories of first and foreign language acquisition and to the approaches and methods for teaching foreign languages. More specifically, students will familiarize themselves with the different factors that contribute to the development of foreign language proficiency and the cognitive processes involved in language acquisition and production. Throughout the course, students will apply these theories to make informed decisions about effective teaching practices. Finally, the course provides an overview of the different research methods utilized in studies that examine teaching and learning practices and processes, so the students will have an opportunity to experience all steps of the research processes first hand.