6. Research Protocols in TESOL

According to Robertson (2002) "Whilst one may ask the question, 'what is the purpose of research?' it is suggested that the answer is found in what research isn't. It is suggested that research in education is not about settling a debate or answering definitively a question, but merely a tool that provides answers that lead to further inquiry. This is surely seen by the numerous methodologies in second language acquisition over the last three decades and the attempt to build a constructive basis from which second language acquisition L2 teaching can proceed. Yet the research and data has not provided incremental steps, more so horizontal counter arguments."

In this highly debated topic, the arguments remain unsettled as to the qualitative research model Vs qualitative research model dichotomy.

Reading Articles

Cohen, L,. Manion, L. & Morrison, K. (2001). Research Methods in Education, 5th edn, Routledge, NY.
Lee, 0. The relationship of school year, sex and proficiency on the use of learning strategies in learning English of Korean junior high school students. The Asian EFL Journal, Volume 5
http://www.asian-efl-journal.com/sept_03_ok.pdf
Robertson, P. Asian EFL Research Protocols. The Asian EFL Journal, Volume 4
http://www.asian-efl-journal.com/december_02_pr.php

Suggested Reading:

Kim, H.S. (2003). The types of speaking assessment tasks used by Korean Junior Secondary school English teachers. The Asian EFL Journal, Volume 5.
http://www.asian-efl-journal.com/dec_03_gl_kr.php

Module Statement of Purpose:
To critically examine the underpinnings of the paradigms that govern TEFL/TESL research. To answer the oft posed question, 'what is the purpose of research?'

Module Description:
To debate the purpose of research in the EFL/TEFL field. To consider what the role of culture is and how it affects the paradigms. To consider what data is, and the modes of data collection.

Module Goals:
To understand the theoretical bases of the qualitative and quantitative paradigms.

Instructional Methods:
1. Students will read numerous academic articles by world leading authorities and critically examine and compare articles.
2. Students will be able to go to the Forums and raise and argue points of view
3. Assessment is based on written work assessed by our Editorial group.

Submit article for examination (don't forget your ID number)

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