Final answer:
Courtney should conduct controlled experiments to compare the effectiveness of reading versus writing in second language acquisition. She should also develop a hypothesis, perform hypothesis testing, and possibly include observational studies for comprehensive results. Analyzing both qualitative and quantitative data will allow for sound conclusions.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the effectiveness of reading vs. writing in learning a second language, Courtney, an ESL teacher, should conduct controlled experiments. By setting up experiments, she can statistically analyze whether reading or writing activities lead to better language acquisition outcomes. Surveys can provide additional qualitative data on student opinions and preferences, while analyzing existing research can help Courtney establish a theoretical basis for her study. Combining different methods will provide a richer set of data and may reveal which approach is more effective or how they can be complementary.
Initially, Courtney would need to develop a hypothesis regarding the effectiveness of reading vs. writing. Next, she would set up an experimental group to focus on reading and a control group to concentrate on writing, or vice versa. Both groups should be treated similarly except for the variable being tested. This approach would allow her to conduct a hypothesis test based on performance measures before and after the teaching methods are applied.
Furthermore, observational studies could be utilized to see how students naturally use reading and writing outside of controlled experiment settings. This mixed-methods approach will provide a comprehensive understanding of the use of language in an educational context. After collecting the data, Courtney should carefully analyze her findings both quantitatively and qualitatively, to draw conclusions about the effectiveness of reading and writing activities in second language learning.