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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 way we will do this is to critically examine 6 sets of readings representing current issues, debates or opposing points of view; to make explicit their theoretical backgrounds and assumptions, how this affects the course of their arguments, and what counts as ‘evidence’. Many of these sets of articles represent a conflict between ‘emic’ (abstract, ‘insider’ knowledge) and ‘etic’ (observable, measurable) approaches; an opposition which is pervasive across linguistics and applied linguistics. We will examine readings by important thinkers in the field including Chomsky, Blommaert, Selinker, Pinker & Prince. All materials will be made available through LMS. Students are encouraged to begin reading early.
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