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129 List Of Research Topics In English Language Teaching [updated]

List Of Research Topics In English Language Teaching

English Language Teaching (ELT) is a field dedicated to teaching English to non-native speakers. It’s important because English is a global language used for communication, business, and education worldwide. Research in ELT helps improve teaching methods, making it easier for students to learn English effectively. This blog will explore a list of research topics in English language teaching.

What Are The Areas Of Research In English Language Teaching?

Table of Contents

Research in English Language Teaching (ELT) encompasses a wide range of areas, including:

  • Language Learning: Understanding how people learn English well, like when they learn a new language and if there’s a best time to do it.
  • Teaching Ways: Looking into different ways teachers teach, like using conversations, tasks, or mixing language with other subjects.
  • Curriculum Design and Syllabus Development: Designing and evaluating language curricula and syllabi to meet the needs of diverse learners and contexts.
  • Assessment and Evaluation: Developing and validating assessment tools, exploring alternative assessment methods, and investigating the effectiveness of feedback and error correction strategies.
  • Technology in ELT: Exploring the integration of technology in language teaching and learning, including computer-assisted language learning (CALL), mobile-assisted language learning (MALL), and online learning platforms.
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development: Investigating pre-service and in-service teacher education programs, reflective practices, and challenges in teacher training.
  • Cultural and Sociolinguistic Aspects: Examining the role of culture in language teaching and learning, sociolinguistic competence, and addressing cultural diversity in the classroom.
  • Learner Diversity and Inclusive Practices: Researching teaching strategies for diverse learners, including young learners, learners with learning disabilities, and learners from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
  • Policy and Planning in ELT: Analyzing language policies at national and international levels, exploring the implementation of ELT programs, and examining the role of ELT in national development.
  • Research Methodologies in ELT: Investigating qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research approaches in ELT research, including action research conducted by teachers in their own classrooms.
  • Future Trends and Innovations: Exploring emerging trends and innovations in ELT, such as the impact of globalization, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in language learning, and innovative teaching strategies.

129 List Of Research Topics In English Language Teaching: Category Wise

Language acquisition and development.

  • Second Language Acquisition Theories: Explore different theories explaining how learners acquire a second language.
  • Critical Period Hypothesis: Investigate the idea of an optimal age range for language acquisition.
  • Multilingualism and Language Development: Study how knowing multiple languages affects language development.
  • Cognitive and Affective Factors in Language Learning: Examine the role of cognitive abilities and emotions in language learning.
  • Language Learning Strategies: Investigate the strategies learners use to acquire and develop language skills.
  • Input Hypothesis: Explore the role of comprehensible input in language acquisition.
  • Interaction Hypothesis: Examine the importance of interaction in language learning.
  • Fossilization in Second Language Learning: Study why some learners reach a plateau in their language development.

Teaching Methodologies and Approaches

  • Communicative Language Teaching (CLT): Analyze the effectiveness of CLT in promoting communication skills.
  • Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT): Explore the use of real-world tasks to teach language.
  • Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL): Investigate teaching subject content through English.
  • Blended Learning in ELT: Study the integration of traditional and online teaching methods.
  • Audio-Lingual Method: Assess the effectiveness of drills and repetition in language teaching.
  • Grammar-Translation Method: Compare traditional grammar-focused methods with communicative approaches.
  • Lexical Approach: Explore teaching vocabulary as a key component of language proficiency.
  • Suggestopedia: Investigate the use of relaxation techniques to enhance language learning.

Curriculum Design and Syllabus Development

  • Needs Analysis in ELT: Identify the language needs of learners and design appropriate curricula.
  • Integrating Language Skills in Curriculum: Examine strategies for integrating reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.
  • Syllabus Types: Compare different types of syllabi, such as structural and task-based.
  • Task-Based Syllabus Design: Design syllabi based on real-world tasks to promote language acquisition.
  • Content-Based Instruction (CBI): Integrate language learning with academic content in syllabus design.
  • Needs Analysis in Specific Contexts: Conduct needs analyses for learners in specific professional or academic contexts.
  • Cross-Cultural Communication in Curriculum Design: Incorporate intercultural communication skills into language curricula.

Assessment and Evaluation

  • Standardized Testing in ELT: Evaluate the reliability and validity of standardized English language tests.
  • Alternative Assessment Approaches: Explore non-traditional assessment methods like portfolios and self-assessment.
  • Feedback Strategies in Language Learning: Investigate effective feedback techniques for improving language proficiency.
  • Washback Effect of Testing: Study how assessment practices influence teaching and learning.
  • Authentic Assessment in ELT: Develop assessment tasks that mirror real-life language use situations.
  • Portfolio Assessment: Investigate the use of portfolios to track language learning progress over time.
  • Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT): Evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of adaptive testing methods in ELT.

Technology in ELT

  • Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL): Assess the impact of computer-based language learning programs.
  • Mobile-Assisted Language Learning (MALL): Study the effectiveness of mobile devices in language learning.
  • Online Learning Platforms for ELT: Analyze the features and usability of online platforms for language education.
  • Virtual Reality (VR) in Language Learning: Explore immersive VR environments for language practice and instruction.
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tutoring Systems: Assess the effectiveness of AI-based tutors in providing personalized language instruction.
  • Social Media in Language Learning: Study the role of social media platforms in informal language learning contexts.
  • Gamification in ELT: Investigate the use of game elements to enhance engagement and motivation in language learning.

Teacher Education and Professional Development

  • Pre-service Teacher Education Programs: Evaluate the effectiveness of teacher training programs.
  • Reflective Practice in Teaching: Investigate how teachers reflect on their practice to improve teaching.
  • Challenges in Teacher Education: Identify challenges faced by educators in training and development.
  • Teacher Beliefs and Practices: Examine how teachers’ beliefs about language learning influence their instructional practices.
  • Peer Observation in Teacher Development: Explore the benefits of peer observation and feedback for teacher professional growth.
  • Mentoring Programs for New Teachers: Evaluate the effectiveness of mentoring programs in supporting novice teachers.
  • Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Models: Compare different models of CPD for language teachers and their impact on teaching quality.

Cultural and Sociolinguistic Aspects

  • Language and Culture Interrelationship: Explore the relationship between language and culture in ELT.
  • Sociolinguistic Competence and Pragmatics: Study how social context influences language use and understanding.
  • Gender and Identity in Language Learning: Investigate how gender identity affects language learning experiences.
  • Intercultural Competence in Language Teaching: Develop strategies for promoting intercultural communicative competence in language learners.
  • Language Policy and Minority Language Education: Analyze the impact of language policies on the education of minority language speakers.
  • Gender and Language Learning Strategies: Investigate gender differences in language learning strategies and their implications for instruction.
  • Code-Switching in Multilingual Classrooms: Study the role of code-switching in language learning and classroom interaction.

Learner Diversity and Inclusive Practices

  • Teaching English to Young Learners (TEYL): Examine effective teaching strategies for children learning English.
  • Addressing Learning Disabilities in ELT: Investigate methods for supporting learners with disabilities in language learning.
  • ELT for Specific Purposes (ESP): Explore specialized English language instruction for specific fields.
  • Differentiated Instruction in Language Teaching: Develop strategies for addressing diverse learner needs in the language classroom.
  • Inclusive Pedagogies for Learners with Special Educational Needs: Design instructional approaches that accommodate learners with disabilities in language learning.
  • Language Learning Strategies of Autistic Learners: Investigate effective language learning strategies for individuals on the autism spectrum.
  • Language Identity and Learner Motivation: Explore the relationship between language identity and motivation in language learning.

Policy and Planning in ELT

  • National and International Language Policies: Analyze policies governing English language education at different levels.
  • ELT Program Implementation Challenges: Identify challenges in implementing ELT programs in diverse contexts.
  • Role of ELT in National Development: Examine the contribution of English language education to national development goals.
  • English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI) Policies: Analyze the impact of EMI policies on educational equity and access.
  • Language Teacher Recruitment and Deployment Policies: Evaluate policies related to the recruitment and deployment of language teachers in diverse contexts.
  • Language Assessment Policy Reform: Propose reforms to language assessment policies to promote fairness and validity.
  • Biliteracy Development Policies: Study policies aimed at promoting biliteracy development among bilingual learners.

Research Methodologies in ELT

  • Qualitative Research Methods in ELT: Explore qualitative approaches like interviews and case studies in ELT research.
  • Quantitative Research Methods in ELT: Investigate quantitative methods such as surveys and experiments in language education research.
  • Mixed-Methods Approaches in ELT Research: Combine qualitative and quantitative methods to gain a comprehensive understanding of research questions.
  • Ethnographic Approaches to ELT Research: Conduct ethnographic studies to explore language learning and teaching in naturalistic settings.
  • Case Study Research in Language Education: Investigate specific language learning contexts or programs through in-depth case studies.
  • Corpus Linguistics in ELT Research: Analyze language use patterns and learner language production using corpus linguistic methods.
  • Longitudinal Studies of Language Learning: Follow language learners over an extended period to examine developmental trajectories and factors influencing language acquisition.

Future Trends and Innovations

  • Emerging Technologies in ELT: Study the integration of technologies like AI and VR in language teaching.
  • Innovations in Teaching Strategies: Explore new approaches to teaching language, such as flipped classrooms and gamification.
  • Future Directions in ELT Research: Investigate potential areas for future research in English language teaching.
  • Wearable Technology in Language Learning: Explore the potential of wearable devices for delivering personalized language instruction.
  • Data Analytics for Adaptive Learning: Develop data-driven approaches to adaptive learning in language education.
  • Augmented Reality (AR) Applications in ELT: Design AR-enhanced language learning experiences for immersive language practice.
  • Global Citizenship Education and Language Learning: Investigate the role of language education in fostering global citizenship skills.
  • Eco-Linguistics and Language Education: Explore the intersection of language education and environmental sustainability.
  • Metacognition and Language Learning: Explore how learners’ awareness of their own learning processes affects language acquisition.
  • Peer Interaction in Language Learning: Investigate the role of peer collaboration and discussion in promoting language development.
  • Heritage Language Education: Study strategies for maintaining and revitalizing heritage languages among immigrant and minority communities.
  • Language Learning Motivation in Adolescents: Examine factors influencing motivation and engagement in adolescent language learners.
  • Phonological Awareness in Language Learning: Investigate the role of phonological awareness in literacy development for language learners.
  • Pragmatic Development in Language Learners: Explore how learners acquire pragmatic competence and understanding of language use in context.
  • Digital Literacies and Language Learning: Examine how digital literacy skills contribute to language proficiency and communication in the digital age.
  • Critical Language Awareness: Investigate approaches to developing learners’ critical awareness of language use and power dynamics.
  • Language Teacher Identity: Study how language teachers’ identities shape their beliefs, practices, and interactions in the classroom.
  • Collaborative Learning in Language Education: Explore the benefits and challenges of collaborative learning environments for language learners.
  • Motivational Strategies in Language Teaching: Develop and evaluate motivational techniques to enhance student engagement and persistence in language learning.
  • Heritage Language Maintenance: Investigate factors influencing the maintenance and transmission of heritage languages across generations.
  • Phonics Instruction in Language Learning: Examine the effectiveness of phonics-based approaches for teaching reading and pronunciation.
  • Language Policy Implementation: Analyze the challenges and successes of implementing language policies at the institutional, regional, and national levels.
  • Language Teacher Cognition: Explore language teachers’ beliefs, knowledge, and decision-making processes in the classroom.
  • Intercultural Communicative Competence: Develop strategies for fostering learners’ ability to communicate effectively across cultures.
  • Critical Pedagogy in Language Education: Explore approaches to teaching language that promote critical thinking, social justice, and equity.
  • Language Learning Strategies for Autodidacts: Investigate effective self-directed learning strategies for language learners outside formal educational settings.
  • Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) in Higher Education: Examine the implementation and outcomes of CLIL programs in tertiary education.
  • Sociocultural Theory and Language Learning: Explore how social and cultural factors influence language acquisition and development.
  • Language Socialization: Investigate how individuals learn language within social and cultural contexts, including family, peer groups, and communities.
  • Speech Perception and Language Learning: Examine the relationship between speech perception abilities and language proficiency in second language learners.
  • Genre-Based Approaches to Language Teaching: Explore the use of genre analysis and genre-based pedagogy to teach language skills in context.
  • Learner Autonomy in Language Learning: Investigate strategies for promoting learner autonomy and independence in language education.
  • Multimodal Literacy in Language Learning: Examine the integration of multiple modes of communication, such as text, image, and sound, in language instruction.
  • Community-Based Language Learning: Study language learning initiatives that engage learners with their local communities and resources.
  • English as a Lingua Franca (ELF) Communication: Explore the use of English as a global means of communication among speakers from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Research in English Language Teaching covers a wide range of topics, from language acquisition theories to the impact of technology on learning. By exploring these topics (from a list of research topics in english language teaching), we can improve how English is taught and learned, making it more effective and accessible for everyone.

Continuous research and collaboration among educators, researchers, and policymakers are essential for the ongoing development of ELT.

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Research Topics & Ideas: Education

170+ Research Ideas To Fast-Track Your Project

Topic Kickstarter: Research topics in education

If you’re just starting out exploring education-related topics for your dissertation, thesis or research project, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll help kickstart your research topic ideation process by providing a hearty list of research topics and ideas , including examples from actual dissertations and theses..

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We know it’s exciting to run through a list of research topics, but please keep in mind that this list is just a starting point . To develop a suitable education-related research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , and a viable plan of action to fill that gap.

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  • List of 120+ level-specific research topics 
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Education-Related Research Topics & Ideas

Below you’ll find a list of education-related research topics and idea kickstarters. These are fairly broad and flexible to various contexts, so keep in mind that you will need to refine them a little. Nevertheless, they should inspire some ideas for your project.

  • The impact of school funding on student achievement
  • The effects of social and emotional learning on student well-being
  • The effects of parental involvement on student behaviour
  • The impact of teacher training on student learning
  • The impact of classroom design on student learning
  • The impact of poverty on education
  • The use of student data to inform instruction
  • The role of parental involvement in education
  • The effects of mindfulness practices in the classroom
  • The use of technology in the classroom
  • The role of critical thinking in education
  • The use of formative and summative assessments in the classroom
  • The use of differentiated instruction in the classroom
  • The use of gamification in education
  • The effects of teacher burnout on student learning
  • The impact of school leadership on student achievement
  • The effects of teacher diversity on student outcomes
  • The role of teacher collaboration in improving student outcomes
  • The implementation of blended and online learning
  • The effects of teacher accountability on student achievement
  • The effects of standardized testing on student learning
  • The effects of classroom management on student behaviour
  • The effects of school culture on student achievement
  • The use of student-centred learning in the classroom
  • The impact of teacher-student relationships on student outcomes
  • The achievement gap in minority and low-income students
  • The use of culturally responsive teaching in the classroom
  • The impact of teacher professional development on student learning
  • The use of project-based learning in the classroom
  • The effects of teacher expectations on student achievement
  • The use of adaptive learning technology in the classroom
  • The impact of teacher turnover on student learning
  • The effects of teacher recruitment and retention on student learning
  • The impact of early childhood education on later academic success
  • The impact of parental involvement on student engagement
  • The use of positive reinforcement in education
  • The impact of school climate on student engagement
  • The role of STEM education in preparing students for the workforce
  • The effects of school choice on student achievement
  • The use of technology in the form of online tutoring

Level-Specific Research Topics

Looking for research topics for a specific level of education? We’ve got you covered. Below you can find research topic ideas for primary, secondary and tertiary-level education contexts. Click the relevant level to view the respective list.

Research Topics: Pick An Education Level

Primary education.

  • Investigating the effects of peer tutoring on academic achievement in primary school
  • Exploring the benefits of mindfulness practices in primary school classrooms
  • Examining the effects of different teaching strategies on primary school students’ problem-solving skills
  • The use of storytelling as a teaching strategy in primary school literacy instruction
  • The role of cultural diversity in promoting tolerance and understanding in primary schools
  • The impact of character education programs on moral development in primary school students
  • Investigating the use of technology in enhancing primary school mathematics education
  • The impact of inclusive curriculum on promoting equity and diversity in primary schools
  • The impact of outdoor education programs on environmental awareness in primary school students
  • The influence of school climate on student motivation and engagement in primary schools
  • Investigating the effects of early literacy interventions on reading comprehension in primary school students
  • The impact of parental involvement in school decision-making processes on student achievement in primary schools
  • Exploring the benefits of inclusive education for students with special needs in primary schools
  • Investigating the effects of teacher-student feedback on academic motivation in primary schools
  • The role of technology in developing digital literacy skills in primary school students
  • Effective strategies for fostering a growth mindset in primary school students
  • Investigating the role of parental support in reducing academic stress in primary school children
  • The role of arts education in fostering creativity and self-expression in primary school students
  • Examining the effects of early childhood education programs on primary school readiness
  • Examining the effects of homework on primary school students’ academic performance
  • The role of formative assessment in improving learning outcomes in primary school classrooms
  • The impact of teacher-student relationships on academic outcomes in primary school
  • Investigating the effects of classroom environment on student behavior and learning outcomes in primary schools
  • Investigating the role of creativity and imagination in primary school curriculum
  • The impact of nutrition and healthy eating programs on academic performance in primary schools
  • The impact of social-emotional learning programs on primary school students’ well-being and academic performance
  • The role of parental involvement in academic achievement of primary school children
  • Examining the effects of classroom management strategies on student behavior in primary school
  • The role of school leadership in creating a positive school climate Exploring the benefits of bilingual education in primary schools
  • The effectiveness of project-based learning in developing critical thinking skills in primary school students
  • The role of inquiry-based learning in fostering curiosity and critical thinking in primary school students
  • The effects of class size on student engagement and achievement in primary schools
  • Investigating the effects of recess and physical activity breaks on attention and learning in primary school
  • Exploring the benefits of outdoor play in developing gross motor skills in primary school children
  • The effects of educational field trips on knowledge retention in primary school students
  • Examining the effects of inclusive classroom practices on students’ attitudes towards diversity in primary schools
  • The impact of parental involvement in homework on primary school students’ academic achievement
  • Investigating the effectiveness of different assessment methods in primary school classrooms
  • The influence of physical activity and exercise on cognitive development in primary school children
  • Exploring the benefits of cooperative learning in promoting social skills in primary school students

Secondary Education

  • Investigating the effects of school discipline policies on student behavior and academic success in secondary education
  • The role of social media in enhancing communication and collaboration among secondary school students
  • The impact of school leadership on teacher effectiveness and student outcomes in secondary schools
  • Investigating the effects of technology integration on teaching and learning in secondary education
  • Exploring the benefits of interdisciplinary instruction in promoting critical thinking skills in secondary schools
  • The impact of arts education on creativity and self-expression in secondary school students
  • The effectiveness of flipped classrooms in promoting student learning in secondary education
  • The role of career guidance programs in preparing secondary school students for future employment
  • Investigating the effects of student-centered learning approaches on student autonomy and academic success in secondary schools
  • The impact of socio-economic factors on educational attainment in secondary education
  • Investigating the impact of project-based learning on student engagement and academic achievement in secondary schools
  • Investigating the effects of multicultural education on cultural understanding and tolerance in secondary schools
  • The influence of standardized testing on teaching practices and student learning in secondary education
  • Investigating the effects of classroom management strategies on student behavior and academic engagement in secondary education
  • The influence of teacher professional development on instructional practices and student outcomes in secondary schools
  • The role of extracurricular activities in promoting holistic development and well-roundedness in secondary school students
  • Investigating the effects of blended learning models on student engagement and achievement in secondary education
  • The role of physical education in promoting physical health and well-being among secondary school students
  • Investigating the effects of gender on academic achievement and career aspirations in secondary education
  • Exploring the benefits of multicultural literature in promoting cultural awareness and empathy among secondary school students
  • The impact of school counseling services on student mental health and well-being in secondary schools
  • Exploring the benefits of vocational education and training in preparing secondary school students for the workforce
  • The role of digital literacy in preparing secondary school students for the digital age
  • The influence of parental involvement on academic success and well-being of secondary school students
  • The impact of social-emotional learning programs on secondary school students’ well-being and academic success
  • The role of character education in fostering ethical and responsible behavior in secondary school students
  • Examining the effects of digital citizenship education on responsible and ethical technology use among secondary school students
  • The impact of parental involvement in school decision-making processes on student outcomes in secondary schools
  • The role of educational technology in promoting personalized learning experiences in secondary schools
  • The impact of inclusive education on the social and academic outcomes of students with disabilities in secondary schools
  • The influence of parental support on academic motivation and achievement in secondary education
  • The role of school climate in promoting positive behavior and well-being among secondary school students
  • Examining the effects of peer mentoring programs on academic achievement and social-emotional development in secondary schools
  • Examining the effects of teacher-student relationships on student motivation and achievement in secondary schools
  • Exploring the benefits of service-learning programs in promoting civic engagement among secondary school students
  • The impact of educational policies on educational equity and access in secondary education
  • Examining the effects of homework on academic achievement and student well-being in secondary education
  • Investigating the effects of different assessment methods on student performance in secondary schools
  • Examining the effects of single-sex education on academic performance and gender stereotypes in secondary schools
  • The role of mentoring programs in supporting the transition from secondary to post-secondary education

Tertiary Education

  • The role of student support services in promoting academic success and well-being in higher education
  • The impact of internationalization initiatives on students’ intercultural competence and global perspectives in tertiary education
  • Investigating the effects of active learning classrooms and learning spaces on student engagement and learning outcomes in tertiary education
  • Exploring the benefits of service-learning experiences in fostering civic engagement and social responsibility in higher education
  • The influence of learning communities and collaborative learning environments on student academic and social integration in higher education
  • Exploring the benefits of undergraduate research experiences in fostering critical thinking and scientific inquiry skills
  • Investigating the effects of academic advising and mentoring on student retention and degree completion in higher education
  • The role of student engagement and involvement in co-curricular activities on holistic student development in higher education
  • The impact of multicultural education on fostering cultural competence and diversity appreciation in higher education
  • The role of internships and work-integrated learning experiences in enhancing students’ employability and career outcomes
  • Examining the effects of assessment and feedback practices on student learning and academic achievement in tertiary education
  • The influence of faculty professional development on instructional practices and student outcomes in tertiary education
  • The influence of faculty-student relationships on student success and well-being in tertiary education
  • The impact of college transition programs on students’ academic and social adjustment to higher education
  • The impact of online learning platforms on student learning outcomes in higher education
  • The impact of financial aid and scholarships on access and persistence in higher education
  • The influence of student leadership and involvement in extracurricular activities on personal development and campus engagement
  • Exploring the benefits of competency-based education in developing job-specific skills in tertiary students
  • Examining the effects of flipped classroom models on student learning and retention in higher education
  • Exploring the benefits of online collaboration and virtual team projects in developing teamwork skills in tertiary students
  • Investigating the effects of diversity and inclusion initiatives on campus climate and student experiences in tertiary education
  • The influence of study abroad programs on intercultural competence and global perspectives of college students
  • Investigating the effects of peer mentoring and tutoring programs on student retention and academic performance in tertiary education
  • Investigating the effectiveness of active learning strategies in promoting student engagement and achievement in tertiary education
  • Investigating the effects of blended learning models and hybrid courses on student learning and satisfaction in higher education
  • The role of digital literacy and information literacy skills in supporting student success in the digital age
  • Investigating the effects of experiential learning opportunities on career readiness and employability of college students
  • The impact of e-portfolios on student reflection, self-assessment, and showcasing of learning in higher education
  • The role of technology in enhancing collaborative learning experiences in tertiary classrooms
  • The impact of research opportunities on undergraduate student engagement and pursuit of advanced degrees
  • Examining the effects of competency-based assessment on measuring student learning and achievement in tertiary education
  • Examining the effects of interdisciplinary programs and courses on critical thinking and problem-solving skills in college students
  • The role of inclusive education and accessibility in promoting equitable learning experiences for diverse student populations
  • The role of career counseling and guidance in supporting students’ career decision-making in tertiary education
  • The influence of faculty diversity and representation on student success and inclusive learning environments in higher education

Research topic idea mega list

Education-Related Dissertations & Theses

While the ideas we’ve presented above are a decent starting point for finding a research topic in education, they are fairly generic and non-specific. So, it helps to look at actual dissertations and theses in the education space to see how this all comes together in practice.

Below, we’ve included a selection of education-related research projects to help refine your thinking. These are actual dissertations and theses, written as part of Master’s and PhD-level programs, so they can provide some useful insight as to what a research topic looks like in practice.

  • From Rural to Urban: Education Conditions of Migrant Children in China (Wang, 2019)
  • Energy Renovation While Learning English: A Guidebook for Elementary ESL Teachers (Yang, 2019)
  • A Reanalyses of Intercorrelational Matrices of Visual and Verbal Learners’ Abilities, Cognitive Styles, and Learning Preferences (Fox, 2020)
  • A study of the elementary math program utilized by a mid-Missouri school district (Barabas, 2020)
  • Instructor formative assessment practices in virtual learning environments : a posthumanist sociomaterial perspective (Burcks, 2019)
  • Higher education students services: a qualitative study of two mid-size universities’ direct exchange programs (Kinde, 2020)
  • Exploring editorial leadership : a qualitative study of scholastic journalism advisers teaching leadership in Missouri secondary schools (Lewis, 2020)
  • Selling the virtual university: a multimodal discourse analysis of marketing for online learning (Ludwig, 2020)
  • Advocacy and accountability in school counselling: assessing the use of data as related to professional self-efficacy (Matthews, 2020)
  • The use of an application screening assessment as a predictor of teaching retention at a midwestern, K-12, public school district (Scarbrough, 2020)
  • Core values driving sustained elite performance cultures (Beiner, 2020)
  • Educative features of upper elementary Eureka math curriculum (Dwiggins, 2020)
  • How female principals nurture adult learning opportunities in successful high schools with challenging student demographics (Woodward, 2020)
  • The disproportionality of Black Males in Special Education: A Case Study Analysis of Educator Perceptions in a Southeastern Urban High School (McCrae, 2021)

As you can see, these research topics are a lot more focused than the generic topic ideas we presented earlier. So, in order for you to develop a high-quality research topic, you’ll need to get specific and laser-focused on a specific context with specific variables of interest.  In the video below, we explore some other important things you’ll need to consider when crafting your research topic.

Get 1-On-1 Help

If you’re still unsure about how to find a quality research topic within education, check out our Research Topic Kickstarter service, which is the perfect starting point for developing a unique, well-justified research topic.

Research Topic Kickstarter - Need Help Finding A Research Topic?

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Research topics and ideas in psychology

64 Comments

Watson Kabwe

This is an helpful tool 🙏

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Special education

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Research title related to school of students

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I think this platform is actually good enough.

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Research title related to students

My field is research measurement and evaluation. Need dissertation topics in the field

Saira Murtaza

Assalam o Alaikum I’m a student Bs educational Resarch and evaluation I’m confused to choose My thesis title please help me in choose the thesis title

Ngirumuvugizi Jaccques

Good idea I’m going to teach my colleagues

Anangnerisia@gmail.com

You can find our list of nursing-related research topic ideas here: https://gradcoach.com/research-topics-nursing/

FOSU DORIS

Write on action research topic, using guidance and counseling to address unwanted teenage pregnancy in school

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I learned a lot from this site, thank you so much!

Rhod Tuyan

Thank you for the information.. I would like to request a topic based on school major in social studies

Mercedes Bunsie

parental involvement and students academic performance

Abshir Mustafe Cali

Science education topics?

alina

plz tell me if you got some good topics, im here for finding research topic for masters degree

Karen Joy Andrade

How about School management and supervision pls.?

JOHANNES SERAME MONYATSI

Hi i am an Deputy Principal in a primary school. My wish is to srudy foe Master’s degree in Education.Please advice me on which topic can be relevant for me. Thanks.

NKWAIN Chia Charles

Every topic proposed above on primary education is a starting point for me. I appreciate immensely the team that has sat down to make a detail of these selected topics just for beginners like us. Be blessed.

Nkwain Chia Charles

Kindly help me with the research questions on the topic” Effects of workplace conflict on the employees’ job performance”. The effects can be applicable in every institution,enterprise or organisation.

Kelvin Kells Grant

Greetings, I am a student majoring in Sociology and minoring in Public Administration. I’m considering any recommended research topic in the field of Sociology.

Sulemana Alhassan

I’m a student pursuing Mphil in Basic education and I’m considering any recommended research proposal topic in my field of study

Cristine

Research Defense for students in senior high

Kupoluyi Regina

Kindly help me with a research topic in educational psychology. Ph.D level. Thank you.

Project-based learning is a teaching/learning type,if well applied in a classroom setting will yield serious positive impact. What can a teacher do to implement this in a disadvantaged zone like “North West Region of Cameroon ( hinterland) where war has brought about prolonged and untold sufferings on the indegins?

Damaris Nzoka

I wish to get help on topics of research on educational administration

I wish to get help on topics of research on educational administration PhD level

Sadaf

I am also looking for such type of title

Afriyie Saviour

I am a student of undergraduate, doing research on how to use guidance and counseling to address unwanted teenage pregnancy in school

wysax

the topics are very good regarding research & education .

William AU Mill

Can i request your suggestion topic for my Thesis about Teachers as an OFW. thanx you

ChRISTINE

Would like to request for suggestions on a topic in Economics of education,PhD level

Aza Hans

Would like to request for suggestions on a topic in Economics of education

George

Hi 👋 I request that you help me with a written research proposal about education the format

Cynthia abuabire

Am offering degree in education senior high School Accounting. I want a topic for my project work

Sarah Moyambo

l would like to request suggestions on a topic in managing teaching and learning, PhD level (educational leadership and management)

request suggestions on a topic in managing teaching and learning, PhD level (educational leadership and management)

Ernest Gyabaah

I would to inquire on research topics on Educational psychology, Masters degree

Aron kirui

I am PhD student, I am searching my Research topic, It should be innovative,my area of interest is online education,use of technology in education

revathy a/p letchumanan

request suggestion on topic in masters in medical education .

D.Newlands PhD.

Look at British Library as they keep a copy of all PhDs in the UK Core.ac.uk to access Open University and 6 other university e-archives, pdf downloads mostly available, all free.

Monica

May I also ask for a topic based on mathematics education for college teaching, please?

Aman

Please I am a masters student of the department of Teacher Education, Faculty of Education Please I am in need of proposed project topics to help with my final year thesis

Ellyjoy

Am a PhD student in Educational Foundations would like a sociological topic. Thank

muhammad sani

please i need a proposed thesis project regardging computer science

also916

Greetings and Regards I am a doctoral student in the field of philosophy of education. I am looking for a new topic for my thesis. Because of my work in the elementary school, I am looking for a topic that is from the field of elementary education and is related to the philosophy of education.

shantel orox

Masters student in the field of curriculum, any ideas of a research topic on low achiever students

Rey

In the field of curriculum any ideas of a research topic on deconalization in contextualization of digital teaching and learning through in higher education

Omada Victoria Enyojo

Amazing guidelines

JAMES MALUKI MUTIA

I am a graduate with two masters. 1) Master of arts in religious studies and 2) Master in education in foundations of education. I intend to do a Ph.D. on my second master’s, however, I need to bring both masters together through my Ph.D. research. can I do something like, ” The contribution of Philosophy of education for a quality religion education in Kenya”? kindly, assist and be free to suggest a similar topic that will bring together the two masters. thanks in advance

betiel

Hi, I am an Early childhood trainer as well as a researcher, I need more support on this topic: The impact of early childhood education on later academic success.

TURIKUMWE JEAN BOSCO

I’m a student in upper level secondary school and I need your support in this research topics: “Impact of incorporating project -based learning in teaching English language skills in secondary schools”.

Fitsum Ayele

Although research activities and topics should stem from reflection on one’s practice, I found this site valuable as it effectively addressed many issues we have been experiencing as practitioners.

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Qualitative Approaches to Classroom Research on English-Medium Instruction

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list of research topics in english language teaching

  • Sandra Zappa-Hollman 2 &
  • Patricia A. Duff 2  

Part of the book series: Springer International Handbooks of Education ((SIHE))

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This chapter provides an overview of recent qualitative research in classrooms examining language learning and use in educational contexts where English is a medium of instruction (EMI). After describing the typical features of qualitative research, we identify the kinds of issues that are best addressed through the collection and analysis of qualitative data and provide a list of key principles to guide the design of a qualitative study. We also discuss some of the caveats or challenges to keep in mind, particularly for classroom-based research projects. Three exemplary classroom-based EMI studies are then presented to illustrate how qualitative research has been used in recent research. Using discourse analysis of classroom interaction and other methods, the studies offer insightful contributions to our understanding of the types of tasks, pedagogical approaches, or interactions (between peers or between students and teachers) that are conducive to language development. The chapter concludes with directions for future research.

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Zappa-Hollman, S., Duff, P.A. (2019). Qualitative Approaches to Classroom Research on English-Medium Instruction. In: Gao, X. (eds) Second Handbook of English Language Teaching. Springer International Handbooks of Education. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-02899-2_51

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Masters in Teaching English: research project topics

This week our second-year Masters students in the English teaching programme at the University of Nice presented their end-of-year classroom research projects to an audience of university and secondary school teachers and their peers. We heard thirty presentations on different dimensions of teaching English as a foreign language (EFL) in French secondary schools, which include both lower secondary ( collège , 11-15 years) and upper secondary ( lycée , 16-18 years). The students are pre-service teachers; the majority have passed national competitive teacher entrance exams and have taught part-time through this school year, with support from mentor teachers and university tutors. Some have yet to pass the exams and had shorter school placements under the direct supervision of a school tutor.

This word cloud generated from the paper titles and abstracts gives an idea of the main concerns: language (English and French), teaching and teachers, class and classroom, pupils/students/learners, and … motivation.

WordCloud

The options and guidelines for these research papers can be accessed from this link , (2015 edition) and this one ( 2016/17 ). Below I have grouped the 2015-6 papers thematically. This overview gives some insight into what interests and concerns new teachers and teacher educators in French secondary EFL within the framework established by my guidelines and our school requirements.

Designing task-based activities, lessons, and units

  • Fostering Students’ Interaction In ESL Classrooms: An Emphasis on Learning to Communicate through Interaction in the Target Language
  • The Use of Games in French secondary EFL classrooms
  • Reflection on Task-based Language Teaching in Lower Secondary School Through the Analysis of a Teaching Unit
  • Material design: Secondary school EFL teaching unit on Global Warming

Most of the options for this project involved task-based language teaching , but some students were particularly interested either in preparing materials based on this approach, implementing activities, or evaluating their own lessons and units from this perspective. Some students felt they fell short in this respect: real-world constraints with respect to pupils’ age or proficiency, curricular requirements, or other expectations seemed to militate against a strong TBLT approach.

Teaching and evaluating speaking

  • Different activities implemented in class to help pupils to speak
  • Making technology programmes pupils in upper secondary willingly communicate in EFL and be ready for the oral expression evaluation of the Baccalauréat.
  • How to generate and facilitate Speaking in E.F.L. classes ?
  • A comparative case study in French upper secondary education – combining fluency and traditional TBLT with accuracy and corrective feedback

A number of students chose to focus on speaking skills, an often neglected aspect of secondary school EFL in our contexts due to large classes (often thirty pupils or more in upper secondary) and to a traditional focus on (authentic) texts . Some students focused on analysing learner production (e.g., fluency and accuracy) while others sought to create opportunities for less proficient and often less motivated learners to improve their spoken language through a combination of live and recorded presentations.

Investigating classroom interaction: teacher and learner participation

  • Impact of Role-plays in EFL class on Student Talking Time and Teacher Talking Time Balance
  • Strengthening the development of Student Talking Time (STT) in the EFL secondary classroom: student-centered activities and differentiated instructions

Two students were concerned about achieving a balance between teacher and pupil participation in classroom interaction. They recorded themselves teaching a lesson, and compared talk times for teachers and pupils, with reassuring results in both cases.

Differentiation: addressing diverse learner needs

  • Working with different proficiency levels in the French EFL classroom: out-of-class activities
  • Benefits & Limits of a Differentiated Instruction in an English Class
  • Impact of Differentiated Pedagogy on Pupil’s Motivation
  • Differentiating reading and listening comprehension activities in a mixed- ability class.

Another common area of focus for these novice teachers was differentiation, a popular topic in language teaching and indeed other disciplines in French education at present. Students investigated different approaches to accommodating different learner needs, from mixed-ability pair work or grouping by proficiency, to separate tasks for different groups. There was some overlap between these projects and others focusing explicitly on pupil motivation, since techniques for increasing motivation often included differentiated instruction.

  • Enhancing Learners’ Motivation and Interest in EFL Classrooms
  • Arousing Students’ Motivation In ESL Classrooms: Increasing And Enhancing Participation, Interaction And Production.
  • Implementing Ideal Future Selves in the Second Language Classroom
  • Group work as a potential source of motivation

Approaches to the topic of motivation varied from the psychological (Dörnyei and colleagues) to the practical (Rivoire). A number of students and teachers in our schools have recently begun implementing Rivoire’s approach to classroom management via a “group work system.” It’s a somewhat controversial approach; see Puren et al and links on my wiki for criticism.

Teaching content: history, geography, art, literature

  • CLIL in French schools:meaning-focused or form-focused?
  • ‘Soft’ CLIL in French Lower Secondary School: the Benefits of Teaching Geography in English Classes
  • Art in English classes or How to integrate art notions in upper-secondary EFL classes
  • Access to Culture in Classes of 6ème Between Motivation and Adaptation
  • Teaching Literature in Middle School: Benefits and challenges
  • Reading in English : How to introduce literature in language teaching class in lower secondary school
  • How to develop pupils’ taste for reading through extracts from Roald Dahl

In French universities and secondary schools, the study of English is situated within the field of anglistics , which views language and culture as indissociable, and the (written) text as the prime vehicle for conveying meaning (cf Angles ). “Culture” is thus an important component of English programmes and, I have argued , can be considered as separate content just like other disciplines which are taught through the medium of a foreign language as Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL). Students this year focused on teaching history and geography, modern art, and different forms of literature to upper and lower secondary classes.

Tools for teaching

  • Using the dictionary Inside and Outside The Classroom
  • Integrating Web Online Mapping Services in the Teaching of EFL
  • Teaching Vocabulary & the use of flashcards.

Three students focused on particular tools for language teaching, two using paper-based materials such as dictionaries and flashcards to aid comprehension and retention of lexical items, and perhaps encourage learner autonomy. A third demonstrated the more complex affordances of Google applications such as maps and street view, and how these might be exploited for learning about the culture of English-speaking countries.

Classroom language: native versus target language use

  • Perceptions of French students in regard to native and non native speaking teachers
  • EFL teaching: Questioning L2 exclusivity and its effects on learners and teachers in a Lower Secondary school

Finally, two students focused on questions surrounding classroom language, including the native-nonnative debate and the use of the L1 in classroom.

These, then, are the topics selected and researched by our thirty masters students this year, written up and defended in English over five days last week before peers, university tutors and school teacher mentors.

Rivoire, M. (2012). Travailler en “ilôts bonifiés” pour la réussite de tous, Chambéry, Génération 5. Whyte, S. (2014). Research project topics 2014-15.  Weebly

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9 thoughts on “ masters in teaching english: research project topics ”.

Dear Shona, Compliments for the guidelines and resources for this curriculum task and the resulting student products. Have shared the briefing page on Twitter targeting the NL (language) teacher education community the more since your approach, IMO, is also a great & practical example of implementing / exploiting EU projects HE institutions coordinate and/or participate in.

Nice to see you here, and thanks for your kind comment. As you know I’m very much in favour of finding intersections among the things we do as part of our “day job” as teachers, teacher educators, and education researchers, and the EU projects we work on for the collaborative opportunities they provide.

I have a set of slides here where try to highlight some of those intersections: http://www.slideshare.net/cherryenglish/interactive-teaching-in-languages-with-technology

  • Pingback: Masters in Teaching English: research project t...
  • Pingback: Coloriage magique: on busywork and boxticking | on teaching languages with technology
  • Pingback: Sustainability and open practices in teacher education: EuroCALL2018 – on teaching languages with technology
  • Pingback: Adopting open practices in schools: a CALL teacher education study – on teaching languages with technology

I am interested to learn more about Research. I am presently continuing my Master of Art in Education major in English. The challenge and the difficulty I presently feel is on how to state and formulate my thesis problem. I find it hard to find the right diction. Can you help me go through this?

Dear Liza Thank you for your question. In my experience master’s students often find it challenging to come up with a suitable research question and design a study to answer it. I have further advice in this post https://wp.me/p28EmH-15J – see particularly the reference to a 2012 chapter for an abandoned manual by Vivian Cook which lays out the steps involved in articulating and following through a research project in applied linguistics.

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Qualitative Research Topics in Language Teacher Education

May 2020 – volume 24, number 1.

In Qualitative Research Topics in Language Teacher Education, Gary Barkhuizen assembles a host of researchers in the field of language teacher education (LTE), aiming not only to highlight current topics in second, foreign, and multilingual LTE but also to provide practical advice from seasoned educators and researchers on developing a research topic in LTE. The book includes guidance in pairing qualitative research methods with suggested research topics for readers who are already teaching, who are training to become language teachers, or who are interested in or already pursuing graduate studies.

The book covers a breadth of research areas relevant to language teachers and LTE researchers. After the introduction (Chapter 1), each chapter focuses on a particular theme or area of research in LTE. Chapter 2 addresses topics related to working with LTE doctoral dissertation writers. Chapter 3 is based on the theme of “going beyond familiarity” in LTE research, suggesting that researchers draw on other disciplines or explore commonly studied topics in less traditional settings. Contributors also focus on areas of research in LTE that include learning to teach languages (Chapter 4) and language ideologies (Chapter 5). Other research areas, such as language teacher learning and professional development (Chapters 6 and 7), language teacher psychology (Chapter 8), emotions in language teaching (Chapters 9, 10, and 11), and language teacher identities (Chapters 12 and 13) are addressed. Some authors offer topics from a sociocultural perspective (Chapters 14 and 15), as well as topics for second language academic writing (Chapters 16, 17, and 18), English for academic purposes (Chapter 19), and race and gender in LTE (Chapters 20 and 21, respectively). In addition, English as an international language (Chapter 22), multilingualism (Chapters 23, 24, and 25), and teacher study abroad (Chapters 26 and 27) are presented as LTE research areas. Action research in LTE is highlighted (Chapters 28, 29, and 30), along with topics related to issues in language and content instruction (Chapter 31), LTE in primary and secondary education (Chapter 32), task-based teaching and assessment (Chapter 33), approaches in language teaching (Chapter 34), and strategy instruction (Chapter 35). Although some chapters address similar research areas, each chapter provides a unique perspective to the research topics. In the few cases of redundant topics, each chapter serves to reinforce the need for said research.

Each of the 34 chapters following the introduction is formatted to include the same five sub-sections. The first sub-section is a biographical statement introducing the author(s). Nearly all of the biographical statements include reference to the author’s experience as both an educator and LTE researcher. For instance, Maria Ruohotie-Lyhty (Chapter 13) shares how her career of 15 years as a language teacher has contributed to her research about language teacher identity in her present role as a language teacher researcher and teacher educator.

The second sub-section of each chapter is devoted to strategies for choosing a research topic. Each author’s presentation of suggestions varies, ranging from numbered lists to narratives about the author’s experiences. A majority of the authors emphasize advice applicable to any researcher. For example, multiple authors advise choosing a topic that the researcher cares about. Several authors suggest reading existing literature deeply to identify research gaps. Some chapter authors provide suggestions particular to their research area. For instance, Chapter 7 (written by Simon Borg) provides research selection considerations related to professional development initiatives, the overarching theme of the chapter. Similarly, in Chapter 12 (written by Bonny Norton and Peter de Costa), the authors center their strategies specifically on steps for arriving at a research topic in the area of language teacher identity in teacher education.

The third sub-section of each chapter is a description of five proposed research topics from a particular focus in LTE research. For instance, Chapter 28 (written by Anne Burns) offers topics related to action research, which include research into educators’ identified classroom issues (e.g., materials or approaches to teaching), the process of teachers becoming researchers, the impact of action research on teacher identity, the support needs of teacher researchers, and the sustainment of action research among teachers. Chapter 3 (written by Tan Bee Tin) presents five suggested research topics on the theme of “going beyond familiarity in LTE research,” with topics including creativity in the use, learning, and teaching of language; the role of interest in teaching and learning environments; the learning and teaching of language in diverse settings; teacher talk; and the language learning experiences of students in varied settings. For each potential research topic, a one- to two-paragraph description is included with a rationale explaining the research need.

The fourth sub-section of each chapter is a list of ten specific research questions that frame the identified gaps from the research topic descriptions. For example, Jim McKinley (Chapter 17), based on the suggested topic of English L2 writing standards and norms in international higher education, offers such questions as “How open are learners and teachers to non-standard uses of English in L2 writing?” and “How do attitudes to non-standard Englishes vary across types of writing?” About two-thirds of the chapter authors provide an additional rationale, ideas for different directions, or potential methodologies for each research question. The remaining chapters present only a list of research questions. Brief explanations and suggestions for next steps and/or potential methodologies in every chapter would improve the usefulness of this sub-section for readers who are familiarizing themselves with choosing topics and constructing research questions. The final sub-section of each chapter is a brief list of key references (maximum of 10) for further reading, making continued exploration of the research area accessible to readers.

Despite representing a fair range of countries and languages, the majority of chapter authors represent English-dominant countries, with many world regions underrepresented in authorship, including most of Africa, Central and South America, the Middle East, and Asia. This reflects many of the chapter authors’ calls for research in LTE across diverse global settings. Notably, the book chapters are grounded in the personal experience of their authors, adding credibility to their suggestions. The inclusion of the trajectories the authors followed from their early careers as educators to their current research interests makes this book suitable for those highly invested in LTE—teachers themselves. The strategies and advice provided by the chapter authors, as well as the research topic descriptions, could introduce and encourage discussion about global topics in LTE in a research course for students training to become language teachers. Most especially, the chapters on teacher action research can inspire action research projects for those just beginning or a few years into their teaching careers, expanding on the collective understanding of LTE.

The short chapters, the simplicity of the design, and the consistent sub-section organization in each chapter allow the reader to easily locate or revisit points of interest in Qualitative Research Topics in Language Teacher Education . While some terminology used throughout the book may be new for readers inexperienced with academic literature, the concepts important to the suggested research topics are briefly defined. Overall, fitting with the editor’s outlined purpose, this book serves as a starting point for additional reading on LTE topics that inspire interest in more detail and depth.

British Council

Six trends for the new future of english language teaching, by chia suan chong, 27 october 2021 - 08:48.

Group of youngsters in a park, reading on an iPad

Poyraz Tütüncü/Pinhole Istanbul, Author MAHMUT CEYLAN

What has inspired your teaching and teacher development this year? Chia Suan Chong, writer, communication skills and intercultural skills trainer, who reported live from the ELTons awards in November 2021, lists her top six.

The announcement of the finalists of the ELTons, a.k.a. the British Council ELTons awards for innovation in English language teaching, has always been an interesting and revealing time. It is a time when teams and individuals are celebrated for their innovation in the courses, books, platforms, apps, projects, and more that they’ve contributed to the world of English language teaching. It is also a time when we get to learn about the current trends of our industry and the directions we are heading in.

As I excitedly clicked through the lists of finalists for the 19th year of the ELTons, here are some of the trends that became apparent.

Using the real world

One exciting thing about language teaching is the flexibility of the content of our materials. Science teachers teach scientific theories and facts and history teachers have historical events and stories as the subject content, but English teachers can use a variety of topics as vehicles to present the English language. We can teach English using fairy tales, workplace rules or quirky homes around the world. Some of the ELTons finalists have discovered the value in using real world events and acquainting learners with real-world scenarios where they might be using English. Sensations English (UK) for example uses news-based video and articles to help students learn about real-world events while improving their language skills. Immerse Virtual Language Experience Platform (Immerse VR, USA) puts students in a 3D world as they experience language and culture in real-world scenarios. And Vlogger Academy (Digital Learning Associates Ltd with The Weirdos and Creatives Collective, UK) uses real-life YouTubers and authentic content to expose learners to the global English used in the world today.

Using English to communicate with the world

There is no doubt that English is an indispensable tool for international communication today. Whether our learners are posting on social media, creating videos on video-sharing platforms or working in international project teams, the English language provides them with the opportunity to communicate not just with people who use English as a first language, but also those who use English as a second or foreign language. 

This reality is reflected not just in products like the already-mentioned Vlogger Academy, but also Converse Across the Universe: Managing Cross-Cultural Communication (Yelena Golovatch, Margarita Kochan, Yauheni Radzetski, Belarus), where students develop critical thinking and communication skills in practical everyday situations where they might encounter different cultures and different attitudes and ways of behaving. 

Even in Online English Pronunciation Course (Luke Nicholson, Improve your accent, UK) that is written for learners based in the UK, the emphasis is on intelligibility, i.e. being understood, and not only becoming someone that learners are not. 

As Our Languages (Stand For/FTD Educação, Brazil) very appropriately describes it, English is a tool for our students to express themselves – a tool not unlike the language of art, music or social media – a tool used to communicate with the world. And like these different forms of expression, learners need to feel a sense of ownership of the English language and own their language learning experience. English will serve to express their identities – a theme that is explored in Communicating Identities (Routledge, UK), a teacher’s guide that supports learners in their exploration and reflection of the different aspects of their identities.

Life skills  

As we provide our learners with opportunities to practise communicating in English, there is flexibility not only in the content of the texts we use but also in the tasks that we get learners to perform. Through these tasks, learners not only have the chance to enhance their language skills, but they are also able to develop other life skills. We saw the development of intercultural skills in the already-mentioned Converse Across the Universe: Managing Cross-Cultural Communication. This focus on expanding the learners’ knowledge of the world is also seen in Talk about China with Oxford (OUP China Ltd with Jingban Beijing Education Culture Media Co. Ltd, China), a series of courses that enable young learners to learn about China via the English language.

Other life skills that feature heavily among the finalists are problem-solving skills and collaboration skills – common features of materials that make use of a task-based learning approach to language learning. Escape the Classroom (Perceptia Press, UK/Japan) for example, requires students to work together in teams to figure out ways of solving puzzles and breaking codes in order to escape a room. Oxford Discover Futures (OUP – English language teaching, UK, Egypt, Mexico, Turkey, Spain and the Middle East) promotes critical thinking and collaboration skills through thought-provoking questions. And English Code (Pearson English, UK) uses code-breaking activities and creative tasks to help nurture the spirit of experimentation, collaboration, resilience and curiosity in primary school students. 

Included in life skills are higher-order thinking skills and exam-taking skills, and this can be done in innovative ways. Literatu Scribo for IELTS Writing Success (Literatu Pty Ltd Australia, Australia), for example, uses an online platform to help students improve their core English writing skills. The approach that Fun Skills (CUP and Cambridge Assessment English, UK) takes to this is perhaps reflected in its title, as children prepare for the exams they need to take in the future through songs and entertaining stories. 

The power of stories

Learning through stories is another clear thread that we see in many of the finalists this year. Fiction Express (Fiction Express, Spain/UK) develops literacy skills through well-supported reading texts while BOOKR Class (BOOKR Kids, Hungary) uses a gamified library app to provide interactive books from the classics of world literature and original stories. 

In this age when we have access to an incredible selection of stories in the form of TV shows we watch through online streaming services, Days Crossing (Chasing Time English, New Zealand) provide learners with original TV series that are specifically made for English language learners. 

Inclusion and wellbeing

Perhaps Link Online Learners a.k.a LOL (hundrED, Finland, with volunteers and educators from 13 different countries) is an example of how the trends of life skills, using real world content and helping learners to English to communicate with the world can all be embodied in one product. LOL provides a platform for teachers and students as a way of connecting with a diverse global youth network in order to develop curiosity, empathy for other cultures and an understanding of different perspectives and ways of life. The volunteers and educators involved in this project are from a diverse range of countries, demonstrating the inclusive nature of this project. 

The importance of diversity and inclusion in English language teaching was highlighted at the ELTons 2020 when the British Council created the new judge’s commendation category for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion – celebrating finalists whose resources bridge educational inequality, reflect diversity and promote the inclusion of typically underrepresented groups. ( Click here to find out more about last year’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion winners)

This year, we continue to see the importance of this theme as we look at the finalists across the different categories of the ELTons. From English competency courses for Para Powerlifters (World Para Powerlifting, Germany, with International Paralympic Committee) and grammar for the deaf and hard of hearing (General Directorate for special education and continuous education, Ministry of Education in Sultanate of Oman with AI ROYAA NEWSPAPER, Sultanate of Oman), to Helping Matters – an English course for social workers (Perceptia Press, UK/Japan) and guides for volunteers at conversation clubs (Learning and Work Institute with Learning Unlimited, UK), we see products that are catered for learners and teachers with a wide range of needs and backgrounds.

The importance of inclusion can also be seen in CIELL-Comic for Inclusive English language learning (Lancaster University, UK, with AKTO Art & Design College, Greece, Innovation in Learning Institute, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität, Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany, Language Centre, University of Cyprus, Cyprus) and many of the finalists in the category for Local Innovation awards, such as Mosaik Dogme Toolkit , a toolkit that helps English teachers of refugees make learning communicative and engaging.  Teaching in challenging circumstances (Cambridge University Press, UK) is another example of support provided to teachers involved in formal or informal teaching in areas with a growing number of refugees and displaced people.

Many of these projects focus on including diverse student groups and providing support for both their learning and their wellbeing. But in the process of doing so, we should also remember to look after ourselves. Teacher Wellbeing (Oxford University Press, UK) provides teachers will a variety of practical ideas to support and maintain teacher wellbeing as teachers while nurturing the professional relationships they have.  

Our next normal   

The last couple of years have no doubt presented teachers with new challenges, and so it is no surprise that these new challenges are reflected in several ELTons finalists this year. The Teachers’ Classroom App (PeacheyPublications Ltd, UK) makes the transition to online teaching easier by offering teachers training of common digital tools and ready-made lessons that teachers can launch and deliver from their desktop. LearnCube Homework Application (LearnCube, UK) provides a digital solution to teachers who have to or want to manage homework and give personalised feedback for their online classes. Engaging language learners in contemporary classrooms (Cambridge University Press) recognises the distractions that learners face today and helps teachers consider the aspects of learner engagement that they have power to influence more directly. And the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary App (OUP, UK, with Paragon Software, Germany/Russia) gives learners to autonomy to improve their vocabulary and pronunciation anytime, anywhere as they navigate flipped learning, online learning and blended learning. 

Previous-ELTons winner, The HandsUp Project, also adapted in response to the school closures in 2020/21. Their Facebook Live Team teaching for the Palestinian English Curriculum (The Hands Up Project, UK with UNRWA, Gaza) delivered daily live team-taught classes remotely, led by a Palestinian English teacher and a teacher in another country. This push towards online lessons in the past couple of years has also resulted in us embracing global communication and increased learner autonomy.

As we reflect on the current trends of our industry through the ELTons finalists of 2021, we realise that the events of 2020/21 might have fast-forwarded some of the trends that were already developing in our industry, but none of them come as a surprise. If anything, this serves as confirmation as to where English language teaching and learning is going and will be going in the years to come. 

Watch recordings of the ELTons online  and meet the winners. Chia reported live from the event alongside teacher, writer, editor, and conference speaker Callie Massey.

Chia also guest tweeted live using the username @BCEltons . Join in the Twitter discussion using #ELTons.

Teachers, visit our TeachingEnglish website for lesson plans and activities.

View the discussion thread.

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Qualitative research topics in language teacher education, Barkhuizen, Gary (Ed.). Routledge, New York, NY (2019). vii þ 224.

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2020, System

This is a timely book that hits its mark. Designed to address a common problem for novice researchers--that it is quite challenging to find and narrow down a topic worth pursuing--it fills a gap in the literature by providing a starting point from which to develop a topic and ground it within the field of language teacher education (LTE) research. As Barkhuizen describes: As an experienced supervisor/advisor of graduate student qualitative research I am constantly reminded of the difficulty students have deciding on a topic. As novice researchers, they may have an idea about a broad, general research area (e.g., teacher identity, gender in the classroom, study abroad), but they often struggle to nail down a specific topic and its research questions. (p. 1). To address this problem, Barkhuizen recruited an impressive list of contributors who were generous in sharing their knowledge and suggestions for topics.

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Basic research in English language teaching

Research is an inherently human trait! Human beings are naturally inquisitive.

list of research topics in english language teaching

We are always trying to 1) figure out how something works, 2) why something went wrong, or 3) what might happen if we tried something a certain way. It’s in our DNA, and we can’t help it! In teaching a language, our inquisitive nature manifests everyday when we investigate how the language works, how to use the best teaching techniques, or how to understand why things we’ve done in the classroom may not have gone as planned. This is research in its purest, most basic form and in essence, we are all “researchers”; we all have discovered something important in our language teaching classrooms and we all have had something valuable to share with our colleagues. The problem is sometimes teachers hear “research” and they say, “Oh no, that’s not for me.” “That’s too complicated.” “That’s for university professors.” I’ve heard some of these statements with my very own ears, and they’re simply not true! Research is accessible to everyone. This post will define in broad terms what role research in a language classroom plays, how our research can inform our teaching practice and lastly what different avenues teachers can take to share their work.

What is research and why do it?

To begin I’d like to clarify that there is “Research” (capital “R”), and then there’s “research” (lowercase “r”). “Research” as concerned with scientists and applied linguists involves a very meticulous and rigorous set of procedures aimed at presenting a study’s findings (that are deemed reliable and valid) to an academic audience. This is highly specialized and requires a great degree of training. It tends to be very theoretical but can also have some practical implications/applications in the language classroom. Then there’s “research”, inquiries that originate from a teacher based on his/her observations and that he/she investigates further in order to draw some logical conclusions. These findings may not necessarily be presented to an academic audience (though they very well may; it’s really up to the teacher how far he/she pursues public dissemination of the results), but are rather intended to help the teacher make informed, evidence-based decisions about how to more effectively run his/her class.

We will be more concerned with “research” for this short post and we will regard it broadly as involving: “1) question(s) to be answered, 2) systematic collection of data, 3) analysis of data [and] 4) answer(s) to the question(s)” (Smith & Rebodello, 2018, p.16). One common research method utilized in language teaching that you might have heard of is “action research”, defined as “systematically collecting data on your everyday practice and analyzing it in order to come to some decisions about what your future practice should be” (Wallace, 1998, pg. 4). In essence, both research definitions explain that you as a teacher reflect on and observe what’s happening in your classroom, record information to serve as evidence, analyze it with the goal of answering questions that you have come up with and finally think about how those results might help you modify your current teaching practices. Because we don’t have a lot of space to go into the procedural details of action research, I highly suggest you read 1) “A Handbook for Exploratory Action Research” by Richard Smith and Paula Rebolledo (courtesy of our very own here at Teaching English!), and 2) Action Research for Language Teachers by Michael Wallace. They are really fantastic books which give teachers a strong foundation in basic research and provide practical examples of how teachers go about effectively investigating language matters in their classrooms.

My own practical example

I’ll quickly give you a practical example of how I performed an action research study at a medical university I used to work for in Saudi Arabia. As a supervisor of the writing program, I had quite a lot of complaints from students, parents, and teachers alike that the pace of our curriculum was too demanding: that we were asking students to do too much too soon. After the first semester of academic writing, we were requiring that learners use secondary sources, which many students clearly struggled with. Intuitively, I could sense that we were on the wrong track but didn’t have any measurable data to support or confirm my intuition. I decided to design a questionnaire to be given to first year, second year, and post graduate students studying in our writing program, and the questions sought to ascertain 1) how much English writing practice had they had before joining university and 2) how much writing had they done in their own language (Arabic). The results of the questionnaire were shocking; on average not only had they not done much academic writing in English, but they hadn’t done much in their own native language either!

Upon analyzing the results, I presented them to our writing administrators calling for a major revision in our curriculum. If students aren’t very proficient in writing academic English (let alone writing academically in their own language) before joining us, then it was a bit taxing to ask them to jump too soon into secondary source use, a skill that requires a much higher level of writing proficiency. Based on the results of that study, we made major revisions to our curriculum and solved some critical issues for our students. After presenting the results to the writing administrators, I called for a general assembly for all the teachers to give a presentation on the rationale for the simple study and its findings. The results and the ensuing curricular changes were well received at the meeting, and the writing courses ran quite smoothly after the changes were implemented. Thus, the action research process entailed the surfacing of the problem of students’ writing, designing a questionnaire to obtain data, recording and analyzing data, and making suggestions to help improve the program. From my action research, I was not only able to tweak the curriculum nationwide, but in my classroom, I became much more sensitive to students’ writing needs and created many more opportunities for feedback and practice to help develop their writing skills. That wouldn’t have been possible without a study and conclusive data.

Where do we go from here?

As teachers, you have the same research tools at your disposal. If you notice a particular activity isn’t working, or there’s a common linguistic problem shared by your learners, or you’re interested in the efficacy of a new teaching idea, do some research! Get permission to conduct your research from a senior administrator and he/she will probably be very interested in your teaching/learning inquiry and your willingness to improve your teaching. After all, performing research and sharing it with others is an excellent way to professionally develop. Once you’ve gotten the approval, conduct the project in a systematic way making sure you gather documented evidence. After collecting the data, analyze it and look for answers. When you have completed this stage, it’s important to share your new knowledge, and there are many ways to do so. You can form a WhatsApp research group with your colleagues to discuss the results of projects that you’re all involved in, form a research committee in your department and schedule regular workshops, call a meeting and make a formal presentation to the teaching staff, contribute to a schoolwide newsletter, or submit your work (in a highly formalized fashion expecting painstaking hours of revision and critique!) as a manuscript for publication in an academic journal. Whatever format you choose, dissemination of your work is important because chances are other people might be experiencing the same issues that you are facing in the classroom. Presenting your work in a public space helps promote dialogue and discussion about important classroom matters, matters that probably concern many others in your field. At the end of the day, don’t forget that your teaching experiences in the classroom matter and they need to be heard!

References:

Smith, R., & Rebolledo, P. (2018). A Handbook for Exploratory Action Research. London: British Council. Available at https://goo.gl/iWDR5m.

Wallace, M. J. (1998). Action Research for Language Teachers. Cambridge University Press.

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How to Craft Your Ideal Thesis Research Topic

How to Craft Your Ideal Thesis Research Topic

Table of contents

list of research topics in english language teaching

Catherine Miller

Writing your undergraduate thesis is probably one of the most interesting parts of studying, especially because you get to choose your area of study. But as both a student and a teacher who’s helped countless students develop their research topics, I know this freedom can be just as intimidating as it is liberating.

Fortunately, there’a a step-by-step process you can follow that will help make the whole process a lot easier. In this article, I’ll show you how to choose a unique, specific thesis topic that’s true to your passions and interests, while making a contribution to your field.

list of research topics in english language teaching

Choose a topic that you’re interested in

First things first: double-check with your teachers or supervisor if there are any constraints on your research topic. Once your parameters are clear, it’s time to identify what lights you up — after all, you’re going to be spending a lot of time thinking about it.

Within your field of study, you probably already have some topics that have grabbed your attention more than others. This can be a great place to start. Additionally, consider using the rest of your academic and extra-curricular interests as a source of ideas. At this stage, you only need a broad topic before you narrow it down to a specific question. 

If you’re feeling stuck, here are some things to try:

  • Look back through old course notes to remind yourself of topics you previously covered. Do any of these inspire you?
  • Talk to potential supervisors about your ideas, as they can point you toward areas you might not have considered.
  • Think about the things you enjoy in everyday life — whether that’s cycling, cinema, cooking, or fashion — then consider if there are any overlaps with your field of study.
  • Imagine you have been asked to give a presentation or record a podcast in the next three days. What topics would you feel confident discussing?
  • Watch a selection of existing lectures or explainer videos, or listen to podcasts by experts in your field. Note which topics you feel curious to explore further.
  • Discuss your field of study with teachers friends and family, some with existing knowledge and some without. Which aspects do you enjoy talking about? 

By doing all this, you might uncover some unusual and exciting avenues for research. For example, when writing my Master’s dissertation, I decided to combine my field of study (English teaching methodology) with one of my passions outside work (creative writing). In my undergraduate course, a friend drew on her lived experience of disability to look into the literary portrayal of disability in the ancient world. 

Do your research

Once you’ve chosen your topic of interest, it’s time to dive into research. This is a really important part of this early process because it allows you to:

  • See what other people have written about the topic — you don’t want to cover the same old ground as everyone else.
  • Gain perspective on the big questions surrounding the topic. 
  • Go deeper into the parts that interest you to help you decide where to focus.
  • Start building your bibliography and a bank of interesting quotations. 

A great way to start is to visit your library for an introductory book. For example, the “A Very Short Introduction” series from the Oxford University Press provides overviews of a range of themes. Similar types of overviews may have the title “ A Companion to [Subject]” or “[Subject] A Student Companion”. Ask your librarian or teacher if you’re not sure where to begin. 

Your introductory volume can spark ideas for further research, and the bibliography can give you some pointers about where to go next. You can also use keywords to research online via academic sites like JStor or Google Scholar. Check which subscriptions are available via your institution.

At this stage, you may not wish to read every single paper you come across in full — this could take a very long time and not everything will be relevant. Summarizing software like Wordtune could be very useful here.

Just upload a PDF or link to an online article using Wordtune, and it will produce a summary of the whole paper with a list of key points. This helps you to quickly sift through papers to grasp their central ideas and identify which ones to read in full. 

Screenshot of Wordtune's summarizing tool

Get Wordtune for free > Get Wordtune for free >

You can also use Wordtune for semantic search. In this case, the tool focuses its summary around your chosen search term, making it even easier to get what you need from the paper.

list of research topics in english language teaching

As you go, make sure you keep organized notes of what you’ve read, including the author and publication information and the page number of any citations you want to use. 

Some people are happy to do this process with pen and paper, but if you prefer a digital method, there are several software options, including Zotero , EndNote , and Mendeley . Your institution may have an existing subscription so check before you sign up.

Narrowing down your thesis research topic

Now you’ve read around the topic, it’s time to narrow down your ideas so you can craft your final question. For example, when it came to my undergraduate thesis, I knew I wanted to write about Ancient Greek religion and I was interested in the topic of goddesses. So, I:

  • Did some wide reading around the topic of goddesses
  • Learned that the goddess Hera was not as well researched as others and that there were some fascinating aspects I wanted to explore
  • Decided (with my supervisor’s support) to focus on her temples in the Argive region of Greece

list of research topics in english language teaching

As part of this process, it can be helpful to consider the “5 Ws”: why, what, who, when, and where, as you move from the bigger picture to something more precise. 

Why did you choose this research topic?

Come back to the reasons you originally chose your theme. What grabbed you? Why is this topic important to you — or to the wider world? In my example, I knew I wanted to write about goddesses because, as a woman, I was interested in how a society in which female lives were often highly controlled dealt with having powerful female deities. My research highlighted Hera as one of the most powerful goddesses, tying into my key interest.

What are some of the big questions about your topic?

During your research, you’ll probably run into the same themes time and time again. Some of the questions that arise may not have been answered yet or might benefit from a fresh look. 

Equally, there may be questions that haven’t yet been asked, especially if you are approaching the topic from a modern perspective or combining research that hasn’t been considered before. This might include taking a post-colonial, feminist, or queer approach to older texts or bringing in research using new scientific methods.

In my example, I knew there were still controversies about why so many temples to the goddess Hera were built in a certain region, and was keen to explore these further.

Who is the research topic relevant to?

Considering the “who” might help you open up new avenues. Is there a particular audience you want to reach? What might they be interested in? Is this a new audience for this field? Are there people out there who might be affected by the outcome of this research — for example, people with a particular medical condition — who might be able to use your conclusions?

Which period will you focus on?

Depending on the nature of your field, you might be able to choose a timeframe, which can help narrow the topic down. For example, you might focus on historical events that took place over a handful of years, look at the impact of a work of literature at a certain point after its publication, or review scientific progress over the last five years. 

With my thesis, I decided to focus on the time when the temples were built rather than considering the hundreds of years for which they have existed, which would have taken me far too long.

Where does your topic relate to?

Place can be another means of narrowing down the topic. For example, consider the impact of your topic on a particular neighborhood, city, or country, rather than trying to process a global question. 

In my example, I chose to focus my research on one area of Greece, where there were lots of temples to Hera. This meant skipping other important locations, but including these would have made the thesis too wide-ranging.

Create an outline and get feedback

Once you have an idea of what you are going to write about, create an outline or summary and get feedback from your teacher(s). It’s okay if you don’t know exactly how you’re going to answer your thesis question yet, but based on your research you should have a rough plan of the key points you want to cover. So, for me, the outline was as follows:

  • Context: who was the goddess Hera?
  • Overview of her sanctuaries in the Argive region
  • Their initial development 
  • Political and cultural influences
  • The importance of the mythical past

In the final thesis, I took a strong view on why the goddess was so important in this region, but it took more research, writing, and discussion with my supervisor to pin down my argument.

To choose a thesis research topic, find something you’re passionate about, research widely to get the big picture, and then move to a more focused view. Bringing a fresh perspective to a popular theme, finding an underserved audience who could benefit from your research, or answering a controversial question can make your thesis stand out from the crowd.

For tips on how to start writing your thesis, don’t miss our advice on writing a great research abstract and a stellar literature review . And don’t forget that Wordtune can also support you with proofreading, making it even easier to submit a polished thesis.

How do you come up with a research topic for a thesis?

To help you find a thesis topic, speak to your professor, look through your old course notes, think about what you already enjoy in everyday life, talk about your field of study with friends and family, and research podcasts and videos to find a topic that is interesting for you. It’s a good idea to refine your topic so that it’s not too general or broad.  

Do you choose your own thesis topic?

Yes, you usually choose your own thesis topic. You can get help from your professor(s), friends, and family to figure out which research topic is interesting to you. 

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  1. 129 List Of Research Topics In English Language Teaching [updated]

    Research in English Language Teaching (ELT) encompasses a wide range of areas, including: Language Learning: Understanding how people learn English well, like when they learn a new language and if there's a best time to do it. Teaching Ways: Looking into different ways teachers teach, like using conversations, tasks, or mixing language with other subjects.

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    The body of literature on English Language Teaching (ELT) research is increasing, but there is a paucity of bibliometric studies in this field. ... At the beginning of the twentieth century, language teaching had become a hot topic in educational research and development (Richards & Rodgers, 2014). The field of language teaching is always ...

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    Research in the Teaching of English ( RTE) is a broad-based, multidisciplinary journal composed of original research articles and short scholarly essays on a wide range of topics significant to those concerned with the teaching and learning of languages and literacies around the world, both in and beyond schools and universities.

  4. PDF Qualitative Research Topics in Language Teacher Education

    The Electronic Journal for English as a Second Language Qualitative Research Topics in Language Teacher Education May 2020 - Volume 24, Number 1 Qualitative Research Topics in Language Teacher Education Author: Gary Barkhuizen (Ed.) (2019) Publisher: New York: Routledge Pages ISBN Price Pp. 224 978-1-138-61814-5 (paper) $47.95 U.S.

  5. ELT Journal

    OUP ELT blog. We'll bring you resources you can use in your classrooms, hints and tips for teaching, insights into the lives of publishers and authors, and hopefully a few surprises you won't find on any other publisher blogs. Publishes research for all those involved in English Language Teaching. Content links the everyday concerns of ...

  6. Language Teaching Research: Sage Journals

    SUBMIT PAPER. Language Teaching Research is a peer-reviewed journal that publishes research within the area of second or foreign language teaching. Although articles are written in English, the journal welcomes studies dealing with the teaching of languages other than English as well. The journal is a venue for studies that demonstrate sound ...

  7. Research in the Teaching of English

    Research in the Teaching of English is a multidisciplinary journal composed of original research and scholarly essays on the relationships between language teaching and learning at all levels, preschool through adult. Articles reflect a variety of methodologies and address issues of pedagogical relevance related to the content, context, process, and evaluation of language learning.

  8. Research Questions in Language Education and Applied Linguistics

    The [150] chapters are written by experts in the field who each offer their insights into current and future directions of research, and who suggest several highly relevant research questions. Topics include, but are not limited to: language skills teaching, language skills assessment and testing, measurement, feedback, discourse analysis ...

  9. Qualitative Research Topics in Language Teacher Education

    Qualitative Research Topics in Language Teacher Education edited by Gary Barkhuizen, New York, Routledge, 2019, vii+224 pp., GBP£35.99 (paperback), ISBN 978-1-138-61814-5

  10. Action Research in English Language Teaching: Contributions ...

    Although the concept of action research extends to many fields, such as health care (Koshy et al. 2011), business and management (Coghlan and Shani 2016), organizational and human development (Maurer and Githens 2010), and social work (Winter and Munn-Giddings 2001), the focus in this chapter is on educational action research and more specifically on action research in English language teaching.

  11. Scientific Mapping of English Language Teaching Research in the

    Given the prominence of English language in education, the field of English language teaching (ELT) has been very much alive across various learning contexts, whether formal or informal. Along with the progress of ELT, the development of a significant body of research in this field has followed.

  12. Qualitative Research Topics in Language Teacher Education

    His teaching and research interests are in the areas of language teacher education, teacher and learner identity, study abroad, and narrative inquiry. He is editor of Reflections on Language Teacher Identity Research (Routledge, 2017) and co-author of Narrative Inquiry in Language Teaching and Learning Research (Routledge, 2014).

  13. (PDF) Action Research in English Language Teaching: Contributions and

    Bailey K (2001) Action research, teacher research, and classroom research in language teaching. In: Celce-Murcia M (ed) Teaching English as a second or foreign language, 3rd edn. Heinle &

  14. Qualitative Research Topics in Language Teacher Education

    Student and novice researchers may have a general idea for a topic they would like to research, but have a difficult time settling on a more specific topic and its associated research questions. Addressing this problem, this book features contributions from over thirty diverse and experienced research supervisors, mentors, and principal ...

  15. 170+ Research Topics In Education (+ Free Webinar)

    A comprehensive list of research topics and ideas in education, along with a list of existing dissertations & theses covering education. About Us; Services. 1-On-1 Coaching. ... "Impact of incorporating project -based learning in teaching English language skills in secondary schools".

  16. Qualitative Approaches to Classroom Research on English-Medium

    Since the publication of Duff's chapter on qualitative approaches to classroom research in an earlier edition of this handbook, the number and range of qualitative studies on English language education has continued to grow.Textbooks devoted to qualitative research methods in education, including those directly relevant to language and literacy education, have also expanded considerably in ...

  17. Masters in Teaching English: research project topics

    May 14, 2016 Shona Whyte EFL, France, research paper. ←. →. This week our second-year Masters students in the English teaching programme at the University of Nice presented their end-of-year classroom research projects to an audience of university and secondary school teachers and their peers. We heard thirty presentations on different ...

  18. Qualitative Research Topics in Language Teacher Education

    978-1-138-61814-5 (paper) $47.95 U.S. In Qualitative Research Topics in Language Teacher Education, Gary Barkhuizen assembles a host of researchers in the field of language teacher education (LTE), aiming not only to highlight current topics in second, foreign, and multilingual LTE but also to provide practical advice from seasoned educators ...

  19. Research Trends In English Language Teaching: A Twenty-Year Review Of

    This research article reviews the master theses and doctoral dissertations on English Language Teaching published between 2001 and 2020 in Turkey.

  20. Six trends for the new future of English language teaching

    One exciting thing about language teaching is the flexibility of the content of our materials. Science teachers teach scientific theories and facts and history teachers have historical events and stories as the subject content, but English teachers can use a variety of topics as vehicles to present the English language.

  21. (PDF) Qualitative research topics in language teacher education

    The volume provides thirty-some areas in need of further research, spanning topics in areas such as language teacher learning and professional development; teachers as researchers; language teacher psychology; emotions, identity, race, and gender in LTE; approaches to teaching and assessment; and L2 and academic writing.

  22. Reference Lists

    If you wish to contribute a new citation to one of the reference lists below, or suggest an entire list on a new topic, please send the citations or the new reference list in APA (7th edition) format to [email protected]. We would like to thank the organizations below for their sponsorship/promotion of TIRF's reference lists.

  23. Basic research in English language teaching

    One common research method utilized in language teaching that you might have heard of is "action research", defined as "systematically collecting data on your everyday practice and analyzing it in order to come to some decisions about what your future practice should be" (Wallace, 1998, pg. 4). In essence, both research definitions ...

  24. Your Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing a Thesis Research Topic.

    Choose a topic that you're interested in. First things first: double-check with your teachers or supervisor if there are any constraints on your research topic. Once your parameters are clear, it's time to identify what lights you up — after all, you're going to be spending a lot of time thinking about it.

  25. Approved List of Evidence-Based Reading Intervention Programs

    Approved List of Evidence-Based Reading Intervention Programs Under ORC 3313.6028(B), the Department is responsible for establishing a list evidence-based reading intervention programs that are aligned with the science of reading and strategies for effective literacy instruction.