Leila Ranta, PhD - Directory@UAlberta.ca

Contact

Associate Professor, Faculty of Education - Educational Psychology Dept

Email: lranta@ualberta.ca
Phone: (780) 492-7511
Address: 6-119K Education Centre - North
8730 - 112 St NW

Edmonton AB

T6G 2G5

Overview

Research

My research has mainly focused on different aspects of second language grammar development and the teaching of grammar in second language classes. Studies I have been involved in include interlanguage analysis, form-focused instruction experiments, the relationship between the analytic component of aptitude on L2 learning, and issues relating to teachers’ corrective feedback. More recently, I have been exploring the relationship between SLA theory/research and grammar teaching practice. This has been done through surveys of adult ESL teachers’ beliefs and grammar teaching practices and the analysis of ESL grammar textbooks. My interest in these topics has led me to become a member of the executive committee of the Association for Language Awareness (ALA) and co-editor, with Dr. Joanna White, of the Language Awareness journal.

A second area of engagement has been the study abroad experience. This includes a SSHRC-funded study of international graduate students’ exposure to English and my ongoing role as the Academic Advisor for the Visiting Students Certificate Program (VSCP) at the University of Alberta International.

Courses

EDPY 581 - Psychological Aspects of Bilingualism and Bilingual Education

Introduction to the study of bilingualism. Deals with the following questions: What is bilingualism? How do we measure bilingualism? How does a person become bilingual? What are the consequences of individual and societal bilingualism? Priority given to TESL Diploma, MEd, and PhD students. Students from other programs require consent of the TESL program.

Fall Term 2025

EDPY 588 - Teaching English as an International Language

Issues relating to the teaching of English as a global language are explored. A general approach to analyzing the teaching of English for international communication in different settings is developed. Topics may include: functions of language; diglossia; World Englishes; language endangerment; language planning; communicative language teaching in non-Western settings; content-based instruction; washback in language testing. Priority given to TESL Diploma, MEd, and PhD students. Students from other programs require consent of the TESL program.

Fall Term 2025

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