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Researching Language (ARTS90015)
Graduate courseworkPoints: 6.25On Campus (Parkville)
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Semester 1
Overview
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This subject introduces a range of fundamental theories of the nature of language and approaches to the analysis of its structure and use. The subject explores the question ‘What is language?’ via in-depth engagement with fundamental texts on language and linguistics, including work by Saussure, Whorf, Chomsky, Hymes, Labov, theorists of the context of language use including Sacks, Schegloff, Gumperz, Cicourel, Ochs and others, and those such as Blommaert working within current critical approaches. In this way, cognitive and social/cultural perspectives on language will be explored and contrasted.
Each of the six seminars will focus on a classic book by one or more of these authors. Students taking this course are encouraged to begin the set readings as soon as possible, to ease the reading load during semester. Most of the readings are available as e-books via the library or in multiple copies held in the high use section of the library.
Intended learning outcomes
On successful completion of this subject students should be able to:
- demonstrate the ability to critically discuss a range of fundamental theories of the nature of language and approaches to the analysis of its structure and use;
- have an enhanced awareness of the range of contemporary scholarship in their discipline or interdisciplinary area;
- demonstrate an ability to reflect on, critically evaluate and synthesise the contemporary research literatures relevant to their thesis topic;
- formulate and present the research proposal for their confirmation; and
- articulate the range of problems, concepts and theories relevant to their thesis and field of study.
Last updated: 3 November 2022