Language Sciences Sharable Options
Language sciences sharable options are taught courses which are part of one MPhil programme but which may be followed by students registered with any language sciences-related MPhil (subject to approval). Listed below are examples of sharable options available in previous years.
Students interested in applying for any of these should check the eligibility requirements detailed on the course web pages and discuss their suitability with their supervisor. If your supervisor approves the request, they will contact the Programme Coordinator (see Applying for the Programme) in the relevant department to confirm if they are able to offer you a place. You may also wish contact your host institution Programme Coordinator for more information and advice on application deadlines.
MPhil in Theoretical and Applied Linguistics
Introductory taught courses
Research seminars
MPhil in Advanced Computer Science
Some modules from the MPhil in Advanced Computer Science (ACS) may be relevant. If you are interested in sitting in please contact ACS Administration (clacsadm@hermes.cam.ac.uk). Those interested in joint supervision should look at the Natural Language and Information Processing (NLIP) Research Group webpages and contact the person whose research interest is a closest match.
MPhil in Biological Sciences (Psychology)
MPhil in Biological Sciences by Research is one year of full-time research followed by examination of a research thesis in an oral examination. There is no formal teaching as part of this MPhil. Although there are no formal courses, interested MPhil students from other departments would be welcome to attend the seminar programme for graduate students, and other departmental seminars.
MPhil in Education, Research in Second Language Education
Learning Context: Second Language Learning Theories across Disciplines
In this module, we examine two broad strands of theoretical approaches of language learning. In the cognitive and psycholinguistic strand, we look at bilingual cognition, language processing and cross-linguistic influence in SLA in various educational contexts. In the sociocultural and sociolinguistic strand, we examine issues such as language mediation and scaffolding in relation to language development, as well as the theme of variation in relation to language use, identity and attitude. Other sub-themes examined in this module include motivation, learner strategy, interaction and corrective feedback.
Pedagogical Context: Second Language Classroom Pedagogies across Cultures
In this module, we analyse the concept of L2 pedagogy and review key pedagogical approaches that have been dominant in recent years. These include language immersion, Communicative Language Teaching (CLT), Task-Based Learning (TBL), Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL), processing instruction and Focus-on-Form Instruction. We problematise some of the assumptions of these pedagogies and critically debate what constitutes an 'appropriate pedagogy'. Other sub-themes in this module include language teacher cognition, media genre and new technology in language teaching.
Policy Context: International Perspectives on Language Education Policy and Multilingualism
In this module, we examine various issues in relation to superdiversity and interculturality in different multilingual and multicultural settings. The course starts with a discussion of the theoretical and national policy frameworks for language planning and policy making. Subsequent sessions move from an analysis of the issues relating to medium of instruction in schools, to analysis of language diversity and multilingual practice in the classroom, and finally to examination of the relationship between language and identity at the individual level. Other sub-themes covered in this module include language and migration, intercultural communication, community/heritage language education and English as an additional language.
Research Context: Multiple Approaches to Researching Language, Learning and Education
In this module, we examine various approaches, methods and techniques that are often used to collect, analyse and present language-related data. This module complements the generic research methods strand and aims to consolidate students' knowledge of research and ethics and facilitate translation of such knowledge into empirical work. Hands-on sessions on statistical analysis and discourse analysis are provided for the students to work with real data. Another aim of this module is to provide opportunities for the students to develop their professional skills and scholarly identity as an emerging researcher, through attending research conferences, seminars and workshops.