Lessons learned from language learning research in the classroom and the laboratory: Potential and pitfalls - presented by Dr Justin Harris

Lessons learned from language learning research in the classroom and the laboratory: Potential and pitfalls

Dr Justin Harris

JH
LALS Seminar Series
Host
Linguistics and Applied Language Studies, Victoria University of Wellington
DateFriday, March 7, 2025 12:10 AM (UTC)
Live eventThe live event will be hosted in person or can be joined virtually via this page.
In-person locationHU119
Lessons learned from language learning research in the classroom and the laboratory: Potential and pitfalls
JH
Justin Harris
Kindai University

Over the past ten years, I have been involved in a series of research projects which have aimed to add to the empirical knowledge on teaching methodology, but in a way that reflects real classroom conditions. These projects have often focused on the differential impact of task-based language teaching compared to other more traditional approaches, and have drawn on data from classroom video observation, surveys, interviews, and eye-tracking. To evaluate impact, the studies have utilized outcome measures ranging from language output and test scores to learner motivation and self-efficacy. While these studies have provided valuable insights, I have also learned about the many challenges involved in carrying out successful classroom-based research. In this talk, I will begin with a short overview of the teaching context, including reflections on the common problems faced English language teachers in Japan. I will then discuss a selection of my research projects, both classroom- and laboratory-based. In doing so, I will discuss the limitations of each one. Limitations are sometimes relegated to a kind of ‘afterthought’ position in many papers, but they can offer powerful tips for what to avoid (or try to avoid) in future studies.

Grants
    Japan Society for the Promotion of Science20K00907
Date & time
Mar
7
2025
Friday, March 7, 2025 12:10 AM to 1:00 AM (UTC)
In-person location
HU119
Virtual meeting held on Zoom.
Details
Listed seminar This seminar is open to all
Recorded Available to all
Q&A Open on this page for 1 day after the seminar