Language Program Evaluation

This subject is not offered in 2015.

Total of 170 hours.

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For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Description, Subject Objectives, Generic Skills and Assessment Requirements of this entry.The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison Unit website: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

This subject explores the systematic attempt to examine what happens in (and as a result of) a language program. While this information will typically be used to make judgements or decisions about a program, the notion of evaluation as exploring the program, rather than judging it, will also be presented. Evaluation will be discussed through a variety of language education contexts including ESL and other language programs. The subject will focus on research designs and methods for gathering and analysing data appropriate for the evaluation of language programs or projects, and on understanding debates about the nature of such evaluation. Both quantitative and qualitative approaches to evaluation will be considered.

• gain an understanding of the major concepts and issues that underlie program evaluation in general and how these relate to language program evaluation in particular.
• identify the major research designs for evaluation, both qualitative and quantitative, and understand their strengths and weaknesses.
• become familiar with the history of language program evaluation through analysis of key case studies.
• gain experience in using a variety of data gathering techniques and procedures for analysis of program-related evidence.

A written class paper of 2000 words 40% (to be presented during the semester) and an essay of 3000 words 60% (due at the end of semester).

Materials prepared by the School

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This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

• acquire research skills through competent use of the library and other information sources, and the definition of areas of inquiry and methods of research.
• think in theoretical terms about the nature and goals of language program evaluation.
• analyse and critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of different research paradigms within the area of language program evaluation.
• communicate intelligibly and economically the findings of language evaluation research.
• understand the social, ethical and cultural context of language program evaluations.

Subject offered as both online and on-campus. Some restrictions on student visa holders apply. Please contact the course coordinator for more information.