EDBSP1013 Language Acquisition
This unit provides undergraduate students with an understanding of the major theories of language acquisition/language learning, the developmental milestones in first and additional language development, the particular challenges of learning English as an additional language for bi/plurilingual learners, and research-based best practice for supporting the language learning needs of diverse learners across the lifespan. Students in this unit will learn about the differences and similarities between first and second/additional language learning, developmental benchmarks and communicative milestones in childhood and adolescence, and the differences between adults and children learning an additional language. Topics include: What is language? How is it 'acquired'? Communication development in infancy Semantic development - learning the meaning of words Phonological development - learning sounds and sound patterns Variation and typicality in language development Bilingual language development Morphology and syntax, code-mixing and translanguaging Language and literacy in the school years Language in social contexts (Pragmatics) As we explore these topics, students will read and discuss relevant current research, use research to inform the design of learning and/or clinical interventions, and differentiate instruction/interventions for language learners with different needs and language backgrounds. By the end of the unit, students will be able to interpret professional practice documents relating to language learning and development, including, but not limited to the Australian Curriculum, the Victorian EAL Developmental Continuum, the Communication Milestones of Speech Pathology Australia. Students will gain an understanding of the various developmental stages in language learning across the lifespan, and develop critical insights into what counts as effective communication in different social and cultural settings, drawing on literature from fields such as linguistics, anthropology, psychology/cognitive science, education, and speech pathology.
Commonwealth supported place (CSP)
A CSP is subsidised by the Australian Government and students pay a contribution amount. Each unit is classified into a band, depending on the study area of the unit (this discipline may be different from the study area of your course).
2026 contribution amount* $1,192
2026 grandfathered contribution amount^ $1,192
