Interactions between individuals with different language and cultural backgrounds are important in today’s globalized world. Bilingualism and communicating in a non-native language is common and is on the rise in many societies. This proposed module aims to address important issues in bilingualism and second language acquisition. In this module, we will introduce key concepts, theoretical approaches, research methods and empirical findings of bilingualism and second language acquisition. We will cover the cognitive mechanisms underlying language use in bilinguals and the cognitive consequences of bilingualism. We will also discuss the influences of various factors, including affective factors (e.g., motivation) and social factors (e.g., home literacy environment) on language learning in bilinguals.

The module will be presented as a series of teaching sessions. These sessions will consist of lectures, discussions and activities. Lecture handouts and learning materials will be made available online via Moodle..

Aims of the module:

To provide an introduction to key concepts of and theoretical approaches to bilingualism and second language acquisition.
	To familiarize students with a variety of research methods employed to examine bilingualism and second language acquisition.
	To understand cognitive mechanisms underlying language processing in bilinguals.
	To examine how various factors influence language learning in bilinguals.
	To explore effective ways to enhance language learning in bilinguals.
Intended learning outcomes of the module:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

Describe fundamental concepts of bilingualism and second language acquisition.
	Discuss major theoretical approaches and research methods used in studying bilingualism and second language acquisition.
	Explain mechanisms underlying and fundamental factors influencing bilinguals’ language processing, use and development.
	Evaluate advantages and disadvantages of learning and knowing more than one language.
	Apply their knowledge to evaluate practical methods employed to enhance language learning in bilinguals.
 