Applied Linguistics and Second Language Acquisition - Essay Example

Applied Linguistics and Second Language Acquisition The primary motivations for applying to Applied Linguistics and Second Language Acquisition program stems from an interest in undertaking research in SLA and language pedagogy. I am attracted to the course by the prospect of gaining knowledge of the linguistic modalities with the goals of research in SLA and disseminating acquired information in Applied Linguistics. Teaching and research are the avenues along which I foresee my career progressing. My ultimate objective is to become a scholar of linguistics and to return to the classroom as a teacher of English and foreign languages. Language pedagogy has always been my unflinching passion; and my experiences of teaching English as a foreign language primary school pupils (voluntary work in high school), helped me conclusively determine my goals. Observing the process of SLA, I was able to better comprehend the impact of socio-cultural impacts on learning and receptivity. Various elements such as critical age influence, personal motivations, and the overall environment –including social and domestic settings – in which these pupils were learning, combined to create their own dynamic reception framework. I realized that the role of a teacher is not only challenging but also essential in facilitating the development of linguistic skills and effective communication. Indeed, as Sir Christopher Ball put it “successful teaching is about winning the attention of the learner.” After completing socially-tailored A-levels, I jointly took up English Language and Linguistics and International Relations at Oxford Brookes University. I liked the Linguistics course’s focus on the relationship between language and meaning just as much as I enjoyed perceiving the interrelation between language and communication; the course also dealt with human development, the interplay between language and literature and the ideational concepts of descriptive linguistics. The "Psychology of Language"(B+) module, where I developed my interests in SLA, helped me appreciate the social implications of language acquisition, and "Methodology of Foreign Language Teaching"(A) helped develop a keen awareness of a range of teaching techniques (especially, 'microteaching'). My enthusiasm for this program arises from my conviction that it shall allow me to explore each of the above facets more substantively. The theoretical study of the history of ideas in International Relations was another primary area of study in my undergraduate experience. My core interests in this area include: the role of language in informing interpretations of history, the political effects of literature shaping memories, and competing notions of rights, power, and progress, all form my core interests in the interaction of language and politics. Beyond my coursework, pursuing certain passions has also sharpened my skills. As an enthusiast of modern dance, I spent years training and performing, being an active member of dancing groups from primary through high school and Dancing Society at university, participating in several national and international contests. My love for dancing has helped me understand it as a mode of communication, corresponding ideationally in aesthetic or emotional terms. My involvement in dancing shows that I maintain the highest discipline and perseverance to accomplish the goals I set for myself. As a result, I am confident that I will be able to meet my ambitious academic goals as well as, for I sincerely believe in the words: "Follow your passion, and success will follow you." I have always sought to diversify my educational experience. My part time employment at the Global Water Intelligence (since Jan 2008), an organization researching the worldwide water industry, has made me both goal oriented and efficient in time management. The demands of the position entail meeting frequent and strict deadlines through individual drive and teamwork. Also having been placed in European Union projects in Sweden and Germany, and being selected for several international English Studies Camps, for academically talented students, organized by the Anglo-American Polish Association, I had the opportunity to interact with a peer community of diverse nationalities. These experiences opened up a new plane of cultural and linguistic interface, helping me to understand linguistic interconnections and the implications of cultural realities on choices, motivations, and personal preferences. I am confident that my achievements, both inside and outside the classroom, have prepared me well for the course and convey my suitability for an advanced degree. My undergraduate experience has given me a solid footing for a successful academic and professional career. Most importantly, I have a clear career path in mind. I wish to undertake further study in Applied Linguistics and Second Language Acquisition in Department of Education. Read More