The purpose of the programme is to enable primary and secondary school teachers to deepen their understanding of issues related to the teaching and learning of English as a Foreign Language in schools in the People's Republic of China. This is achieved by encouraging students to explore the practical applications of the research literature relating to education, English language teaching and second language acquisition, and also drawing upon their own experience of teaching and/or learning languages. Graduates of the programme will acquire an in-depth understanding of the underlying principles of English language education and their application. This will enable them to develop their own pedagogical effectiveness and research capability. It is envisaged that graduates of the programme will be able to play leading roles in innovation and reform in English language education and sharing innovative practice in the institutions in which they teach.

Students will develop the following transferable skills:

•  to use library and other academic resources effectively;

•  to conduct a literature search and a literature review;

•  to communicate effectively in written English, applying the conventions of academic writing where appropriate;

•  to make effective oral presentations in English.