Dr Michael Atherinos
Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 2, 2025 (28/07/2025 - 22/11/2025)
- Study level
- Postgraduate Coursework
- Location
- St Lucia
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- St Lucia
- Coordinating unit
- Languages & Cultures School
This postgraduate-level course provides an introduction to research methods in applied linguistics, with a particular focus on language use, learning, and teaching. It familiarizes students with key concepts in academic research, including research design, approaches to data analysis, and ethical considerations. The course offers an overview of both qualitative and quantitative research methods, introducing students to their applications in areas such as language acquisition, language variation, and educational contexts. Students will engage with foundational readings and discussions on methodological approaches while developing a basic understanding of how research is conducted in applied linguistics.
A central focus of the course is building essential research skills, including academic writing, critical reading, and the core steps of planning and structuring a research project. Students will also gain experience in formulating research questions, evaluating sources, and presenting their ideas clearly, both in writing and orally. While this course serves as an introduction, it lays the groundwork for more advanced study and practical application in later courses.
The course introduces students to research methodology in applied linguistics and second language research. It is a postgraduate-level course on academic research methods with a particular focus on the areas of language use, learning, and teaching, designed to familiarise the students with a range of qualitative and quantitative research techniques and ethical research practices.
The course covers exciting topics about the nature and types of research on language acquisition across ages, in different communities, as well as in and out of the classroom context. It endows students with the skills to conceptualise, design, undertake, discuss and write a research project, which are the essential skills for postgraduate students and academics. To this end, students will acquire skills and gain experience relating to research quality and planning, honesty and ethics in research, library and database searches, developing a research topic and literature review, preparing a research proposal, and critical reading and writing skills. The course assessments will provide the opportunity to apply these skills in relevant research tasks.
After passing this course students will have acquired skills that are relevant for and applicable to many domains ranging from academic research and teaching over professional development to private sector enterprises.
Course requirements
Assumed background
This course assumes no previous knowledge of research methods, but some knowledge of general and applied linguistics will be useful.
Incompatible
You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:
EDUC7212
Course staff
Course coordinator
Dr Martin Schweinberger
Lecturer
Dr Michael Atherinos
Dr Martin Schweinberger
Dr Hien Hoang
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Additional timetable information
Public holidays:
Alternative arrangements for affected students will be announced through the Blackboard site.
Class allocation:
In order to optimise the student experience, it may be necessary to reallocate students to a different class from their first choice.
Before this happens, every effort will be made to enable students to voluntarily change into an alternative class that is suitable.
Please note: Teaching staff do not have access to the timetabling system to help with class allocation. Therefore, should you need help with your timetable and/or allocation of classes, please ensure you email hass.mytimetable@uq.edu.au from your UQ student email account with the following details:
· Full name,
· Student ID, and
· the Course Code
Additional information and support can be found here.
Aims and outcomes
The course aims to introduce research methodology in language and culture studies (with a particular interest in language). It willﾠpresent the fundamental skills needed to plan and carry out various types of postgraduate research,ﾠranging from critical reading, to structuringﾠcourse papers andﾠdissertation, to basic practical data collection and analysis tools and techniques.ﾠTopics examined include the nature and types of research, research quality and planning, honesty and ethics in research, library and database searches, developing a researchﾠtopic and literature review, preparing a research proposal, andﾠcritical reading and writing skills. Course assessments will provide the opportunity to apply these skills in relevant research tasks.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quiz |
Weekly Online Study Tasks
|
20% |
Week 3 OST - 11/08/2025 1:00 pm Week 4 OST - 19/08/2025 1:00 pm Week 5 OST - 25/08/2025 1:00 pm Week 6 OST - 1/09/2025 1:00 pm Week 7 OST - 8/09/2025 1:00 pm Week 8 OST - 15/09/2025 1:00 pm Week 9 OST - 22/09/2025 1:00 pm Week 10 OST - 7/10/2025 1:00 pm Week 11 OST - 14/10/2025 1:00 pm Week 12 OST - 20/10/2025 1:00 pm |
| Presentation |
In-class Presentation
|
30% |
18/08/2025 - 24/10/2025
WEEK 4 - WEEK 12 |
| Quiz |
Research Ethics and Academic Integrity module
|
PASS/FAIL |
31/10/2025 4:00 pm
Available from the end of WEEK 8. Must be completed by 4pm, Friday of WEEK 13. |
| Paper/ Report/ Annotation |
Research proposal
|
50% |
11/11/2025 4:00 pm |
A hurdle is an assessment requirement that must be satisfied in order to receive a specific grade for the course. Check the assessment details for more information about hurdle requirements.
Assessment details
Weekly Online Study Tasks
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Quiz
- Weight
- 20%
- Due date
Week 3 OST - 11/08/2025 1:00 pm
Week 4 OST - 19/08/2025 1:00 pm
Week 5 OST - 25/08/2025 1:00 pm
Week 6 OST - 1/09/2025 1:00 pm
Week 7 OST - 8/09/2025 1:00 pm
Week 8 OST - 15/09/2025 1:00 pm
Week 9 OST - 22/09/2025 1:00 pm
Week 10 OST - 7/10/2025 1:00 pm
Week 11 OST - 14/10/2025 1:00 pm
Week 12 OST - 20/10/2025 1:00 pm
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03
Task description
Every week from WEEK 3 to WEEK 12, there will be an Online Study Task consisting of 10 questions that you need to answer and submit in preparation for that week.
These tasks are available 7 days before the due date and must be submitted by Monday at 1 pm (or Tuesday if Monday is a public holiday).
The questions will cover the lecture content and required readings for that week. For example, the WEEK 3 Online Study Task will be about the WEEK 3 lecture and readings, and you need to submit it by 1 pm on Monday of WEEK 3.
Each Online Study Task is worth 2% of your final grade. You have 60 minutes and one attempt to complete each task.
After all ten Online Study Tasks are completed, your total study task score will be calculated. Please note that tasks not completed and awarded 0 points are included in the average calculation. The percentage of the maximum achievable points will determine your final grade for this assessment.
The link to each week's Online Study Task will be available on Blackboard.
Marking Information
The weekly Online Study Tasks must be accessed, completed, and submitted via Blackboard.
Answers will be assessed automatically, and results will be made available to students within the week of submission. Answers to questions will be rated as correct or incorrect. For each correct answer, students will receive 1 point. Each Online Study Task consists of 10 questions, and there are 10 tasks in total, meaning students can earn up to 100 points if they answer all questions correctly. The marks for the Online Study Tasks follow the marking scheme of the School of Language and Cultures.
Statement on Gen AI & MT
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly reference any use of AI or MT in each instance.
A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
The weekly online study tasks will need to be accessed, completed, and submitted via Blackboard/UQ Learn.
Deferral or extension
You cannot defer or apply for an extension for this assessment.
This is weekly submission, Online Study Task which is available seven days before the due date, with correct answers and results being made available on a weekly basis.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
In-class Presentation
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Online
- Mode
- Oral, Product/ Artefact/ Multimedia
- Category
- Presentation
- Weight
- 30%
- Due date
18/08/2025 - 24/10/2025
WEEK 4 - WEEK 12
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L05
Task description
In this assessment, you will work in groups of 2 to 4 students to deliver a 30-minute in-class presentation based on an assigned chapter from the textbook Research Methods in Applied Linguistics (Phakiti & Paltridge, Eds.). Unlike the core tutorial reading for the week, your presentation chapter will be a different one—chosen to broaden the focus of the course and expose students to a wider range of methods and issues in applied linguistics research. This task is designed to deepen your engagement with course content, enhance your academic communication skills, and foster collaborative learning.
Topic and Scheduling
- Each group will present on a specific chapter that complements the weekly tutorial topic but is not the same as the chapter used in the tutorial.
- A sign-up Padlet with available presentation chapters will be shared in WEEK 2 and 3.
- Groups will sign up to present in one tutorial session between WEEK 4 and WEEK 12.
- Presentations begin in WEEK 4 and continue through WEEK 12.
Presentation Format
- Each presentation must run for 30 minutes and should include:
- ~20–25 minutes summarising the key ideas, methods, and insights from the assigned chapter.
- One in-class task or activity (~5–10 minutes) designed to actively engage your peers with the chapter’s content.
- Presentations will be delivered in class and recorded for moderation.
- You may choose any appropriate presentation format (e.g., lecture-style, interactive, multimedia), but visual aids (slides, handouts, etc.) are strongly encouraged.
Submission Requirements
- All groups must submit a single PDF via Turnitin at least 2 hours before the scheduled presentation. The PDF must include
- all presentation materials (slides, handouts, supporting docs).
- A self-assessment outlining each member’s contributions
- A brief peer assessment reflecting on group collaboration
Note: All group members receive the same grade unless exceptional circumstances apply. Self- and peer-assessments are required for transparency and accountability.
Alternative Assessment
Students unable to participate in the in-class group presentation due to illness or approved special circumstances must still submit the required documents. An alternative individual assessment will be arranged.
Assessment Criteria
Your presentation will be assessed based on:
- Accuracy and depth of coverage of the assigned chapter
- Clarity, structure, and organisation of the presentation
- Communication and delivery quality
- Effectiveness of engagement during the in-class task
A detailed marking rubric will be provided on Blackboard (Ultra).
Weighting
This task is worth 30% of your final course grade.
Feedback
- Written feedback about the presentation will be provided on the materials submitted via Turnitin.
Statement on Generative AI & Machine Translation (MT)
This task has been designed to be challenging, authentic and complex. Whilst students may use AI and/or MT technologies, successful completion of assessment in this course will require students to critically engage in specific contexts and tasks for which artificial intelligence will provide only limited support and guidance.
A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
To pass this assessment, students will be required to demonstrate detailed comprehension of their written submission independent of AI and MT tools.
Submission guidelines
Submission via Turnitin.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 14 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
This maximum extension length will allow for students' suitable progression with their sequence of learning and preparation for the following assessment submission.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
Research Ethics and Academic Integrity module
- Hurdle
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Quiz
- Weight
- PASS/FAIL
- Due date
31/10/2025 4:00 pm
Available from the end of WEEK 8. Must be completed by 4pm, Friday of WEEK 13.
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02
Task description
After the lecture and tutorial on research ethics and academic integrity, students will be required to complete an online assessment on these topics via Blackboard. The assessment consists of 10 multiple-choice questions and can be taken an unlimited number of times until the passing standard is attained.
The module will be made available from the end of WEEK 8, and it must be completed by 4pm, Friday of WEEK 13.
To pass this assessment, students need to answer at least 80% of the questions correctly (8 out of 10).
This research ethics and academic integrity online module is different from the general Academic Integrity Online Module!
The link to the research ethics and academic integrity online module is available on Blackboard and must be accessed through that platform.
Statement on Gen AI & MT
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly reference any use of AI or MT in each instance.
A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Hurdle requirements
Please note: failure to complete this module or to meet the required standard will result in a FAIL grade for the course, regardless of other marks attained.Submission guidelines
Submission via Blackboard/UQ Learn.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
Maximum 7 calendar day extension. This assessment task is available for 5 weeks for completion.
Late submission
You will receive a mark of 0 if this assessment is submitted late.
Research proposal
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Paper/ Report/ Annotation
- Weight
- 50%
- Due date
11/11/2025 4:00 pm
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05
Task description
For this assessment, you will write a research proposal of no more than 2000 words (excluding references) that outlines the design and significance of an original research project in Applied Linguistics. The proposal must be submitted as a single Word or PDF document via Turnitin on Blackboard.
The proposal should clearly demonstrate your ability to conceptualise, design, and reflect on a feasible research project that contributes meaningfully to a topic in Applied Linguistics.
Purpose
This task enables you to:
- Investigate a specific, researchable topic in Applied Linguistics in depth
- Demonstrate your understanding of relevant literature, theories, and research methods
- Formulate a clear research question and design an appropriate methodology
- Reflect critically on the feasibility, significance, and limitations of your project
Your research proposal should present a project that is original and well-justified, with a clear focus and scholarly grounding.
Structure and Content
Your proposal should include the following sections:
1. Introduction
- Introduce your research topic and area of investigation
- Establish the significance and relevance of the study
- Outline the structure of the proposal
2. Literature Review
- Provide a clear and well-organised synthesis of key literature related to your topic
- Identify theoretical perspectives, major findings, and gaps in existing research
- Demonstrate your understanding of key concepts and scholarly debates
3. Research Question
- Clearly state your research question(s) or hypothesis
- Justify your research focus in relation to the literature review
4. Methodology
- Provide a detailed description of your proposed research design
- Include information on:
- Research context and participants (if applicable)
- Data collection methods and instruments
- Data analysis procedures
- Ensure the approach is ethical, appropriate, and feasible
5. Conclusion
- Critically reflect on the contribution and significance of your proposed study
- Identify any limitations or anticipated challenges
6. References
- Include a complete and accurate reference list in APA 7th edition format
Word Limit
- Maximum: 2000 words (excluding references)
- A 10% leeway (1800–2200 words) is acceptable
Submission
- Submit a single Word or PDF file via Turnitin on Blackboard
- Due date: Thursday of Week 14 by 4pm (AEST)
Assessment Criteria
Your proposal will be assessed based on the following:
- Relevance and clarity of the research topic and question
- Depth, coherence, and critical engagement in the literature review
- Appropriateness and feasibility of the research design
- Critical reflection on the study’s contribution and limitations
- Clarity, organisation, and academic writing quality
- Accurate referencing using APA 7 style
A detailed rubric will be available on Blackboard.
Generative AI and Machine Translation Statement
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly reference any use of AI or MT in each instance.
A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
Submission via Turnitin.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
Maximum of 28 calendar days.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
Course grading
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
| Grade | Cut off Percent | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (Low Fail) | 0 - 24 |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 2 (Fail) | 25 - 44 |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) | 45 - 49 |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes |
| 4 (Pass) | 50 - 64 |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 5 (Credit) | 65 - 74 |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 6 (Distinction) | 75 - 84 |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 7 (High Distinction) | 85 - 100 |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. |
Additional course grading information
Marking criteria and/or marking rubrics are available in the ‘Assessment’ folder in Blackboard for this course.
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Learning resources
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Library resources
Find the required and recommended resources for this course on the UQ Library website.
Additional learning resources information
All resources will be made available on Blackboard/UQ Learn.ﾠ
Learning activities
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Please select
| Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
|---|---|---|
Multiple weeks From Week 1 To Week 13 |
Not Timetabled |
Lecture: Research Methods in Applied Linguistics One-hour ONLINE PRE-RECORDED lectures available via Blackboard/Ultra. Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L05 |
Tutorial |
Tutorial: Research Methods in Appplied Linguistics Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
Policies and procedures
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
- Student Code of Conduct Policy
- Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy and Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Examinations Procedure
- Reasonable Adjustments for Students Policy and Procedure
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.