Why did you decide to study the MSc in Applied Linguistics and Second Language Acquisition course at Oxford University?
This course’s interdisciplinary approach covers a variety of topics in the field of applied linguistics that align with my academic goal of bridging theoretical research with educational practices. Additionally, as an MSc programme, its emphasis on quantitative research methodology and statistical analysis particularly attracted me, as these skills are fundamental for conducting robust empirical studies in applied linguistics.
What is your full-time job?
Currently, I am a researcher in the field of technology-assisted language education. My work focuses on exploring how innovative technologies, such as generative AI, can enhance language learning and teaching, as well as investigating their impact on learner engagement and outcomes.
What did you particularly like about the course?
I really love how you can meet, share, and interact with students and lecturers from diverse academic, linguistic, and cultural backgrounds in this course. It’s an intellectually stimulating environment for any educational and linguistic researcher.
How has studying the course helped with your professional development?
This course has provided me with a solid grounding in research methodologies, both quantitative and qualitative. More importantly, it has equipped me with a critical eye for real-world educational and linguistic issues. The Department’s emphasis on real-world engagement has significantly shaped my academic interests and career aspirations.
What do you most value about the teaching at the Department?
Apart from the high-quality courses, I particularly value the various workshops and seminars on a range of research topics and methodologies, which have deepened my understanding of applied linguistic research. These events also provide rare opportunities to engage directly with world-leading researchers in the field.
What is the community (students & staff) like at the Department?
To quote one of my lecturers, the Department has a “cosy” atmosphere. Everyone is friendly and passionate about their work, and there is always something to learn from others.
What advice would you give to new students who are about to start the course?
I would say the most important thing is to embrace your enthusiasm and get your hands dirty. Don’t shy away from exploring topics outside your comfort zone but anchor your research in questions that truly excite you.
What is your favourite memory of studying at the Department?
I can always vividly recall that in the induction session, the course director invited the entire cohort to write “Hello, welcome to Oxford” in their native or known languages on a whiteboard. That linguistic map was a powerful reminder of how languages shape our identity and bring us together.
The Department’s emphasis on real-world engagement has significantly shaped my academic interests and career aspirations. It’s an intellectually stimulating environment for any educational and linguistic researcher.