Job Discussion Forums

[Mark]

Hi folks (especially the MA holders),

In the other thread there's some talk about the usefulness of Applied Linguistics. I'm just wondering if anyone could really clear up what the difference is between an MA Applied Linguistics and an MA TESOL. Are they basically the same thing? It's my understanding that the USQ program basically allows you to choose either of those two options, but it's basically the same program.

[Gordon]

I see applied linguistics as a little more encompassing than tesol (very subjective opinion). Applied linguistics is the application of language acquisition so it could be more than just learning English.
I chose applied linguistics over tesol in my masters from USQ.

[Mark]

Was there much of a difference in the USQ curriculum between Applied Linguistics and TESOL? Did your MA focus much on classroom methodology?

I actually have a BA in Linguistics, so I'm wondering how much new stuff I'd learn in an MA in Applied Linguistics.

[womblingfree]

[Mark]

Ok, I think I've got the picture. Thanks for the tips.

I'd actually probably prefer to do an MA in Linguistics with a focus on SLA or Interlanguage or something like that, but I don't know of any schools that would offer that through distance. I'd probably have to supplement that sort of a degree with a DELTA-type qualification as well.

What do you folks think? Does an MA Applied Linguistics/TESOL eliminate the need for a DELTA or do you think a DELTA would still be helpful?

I guess I'll do some reading to see exactly what Applied Linguistics is all about. Anyone have a favourite book to recommend?

Although, from what Gordon said, if the degrees are identical, perhaps the AL reading would just be standard TESOL reading?

[womblingfree]