Communication and Information Studies: Language Learning and Language Teaching

What role does language play in education? Why are certain aspects of languages extremely difficult to learn, while others are relatively easy? How do we learn a second language, and what are the best teaching methods?

In the Language Learning and Language Teaching specialisation of the Bachelor’s in Communication and Information Studies at Vrije University Amsterdam, you study the ins and outs of language. You investigate the structure of language, the relationship between language and cognition, and the factors that influence language acquisition. Together with your fellow students, you learn about global language issues and look for ways to address them.

The specialisation focuses on two types of language learning: the process of first-language acquisition by children, including those with an atypical pattern of language development (e.g. dyslexia, a hearing disorder or a communicative impairment); and the learning of a second or foreign language by both children and adults.

The programme gives you plenty of opportunities to shape your own curriculum and follow your interests. It also has a small-scale setup, which means you benefit from personal contact with lecturers. The working language is English. Moreover, this is a unique specialisation: no other university in the Netherlands offers a programme like this at Bachelor’s level.