English Linguistics (Distance Learning) - MA

This introductory module is designed to provide you with theoretical knowledge and practical experience in linguistic analysis which will serve as the foundations for your study throughout the course. The module assumes no prior knowledge of linguistic analysis and is designed to guide you through the process step by step.

During the module, you will examine the main features of the pronunciation of English and of the grammar and vocabulary of the language. You will gain experience in phonetic transcription, and in the analysis of words (morphology) and of sentences (syntax). The module provides you with a framework and a terminology for talking about and describing key features of English phonology and lexico- grammar.

As with all modules on this course, learning and teaching is individual by distance learning. Prescribed textbooks are accompanied by additional materials made available through the University’s virtual learning environment to guide you through your study. Non-assessed exercises are provided so you can practise applying the knowledge you acquire to the skills of analysis. The module tutor is available by email to answer any queries you might have and to give feedback on the exercises you complete, so you know at several points during the module how you are performing.

This module is designed to help you develop core skills in linguistic research which are vital for your work on the subsequent optional modules and dissertation, and which are also transferable to the workplace or further study. During the course of the module, you will be guided through the whole research process, from conducting a literature review and developing a hypothesis, to collecting and analysing data and writing it up in an appropriate way. The module also covers important practical topics such as academic referencing, fieldwork techniques and research ethics.

You will begin by considering fundamental questions such as what we mean by ‘language’ and the distinguishing features of human language. You will gain an overview of the general field of linguistic research, exploring key definitions and the forms linguistic research might take, before choosing a case study on a specific linguistic sub-field that interests you. Throughout, you will be urged to think critically about concepts you may have taken for granted previously. You can expect to read from a wide range of sources, exploring what has been written about your chosen subject area and reporting critically on the assumptions, observations, and interpretations of the authors. You will undertake some data collection yourself, interpret it, compare your findings with those previously published, and discuss problems of method that you encounter. In many cases, your case study will involve the application of theory to the understanding of practical problems.

Learning and teaching is individual by distance learning. There is no set textbook for this module as you will be encouraged to personalise your learning by choosing a linguistic case study of interest to you. Most of your work will be on your chosen case study and on a preparatory exercise. The suggested case studies are of various types but for each there is a detailed online guide on how to proceed. You may adapt the case studies, or offer an alternative in consultation with the module tutor. The tutor is available by email to answer any queries you might have and to give feedback on the exercises you complete.

This module introduces you to the field of sociolinguistics and the wider study of language in society, drawing on a range of foundational and contemporary literature about variation in language. You will learn about the different approaches within sociolinguistics, including qualitative and quantitative methods, alongside an understanding of how language varies according to social factors such as class, gender, and age. You will design and deliver a research project investigating a sociolinguistic topic of your own choosing and will develop a thorough grounding on how to collect sociolinguistic data in an ethically responsible way and how to analyse and present your research findings. This module will ultimately allow you to critically evaluate different approaches to the study of linguistic variation and apply your knowledge in designing a research project to investigate language in society.

You will develop your knowledge through a series of online resources which are followed by individual practical activities where you will apply your understanding of the field. These include: close readings of relevant texts, application of theoretical and contextual knowledge, and so on. Your formally taught sessions will be supported by pre-sessional learning activities delivered via Moodle and post-sessional reflection on what you have learned. Your wider independent learning will be characterised by the development of your creative and critical knowledge of the field which will be supported by the application and development of your research skills.

The module provides an introduction to the study of Second Language Acquisition, with particular focus on the main theoretical constructs used in current research and pedagogical approaches. You will study a range of approaches to second language acquisition and develop the knowledge and skills to critically evaluate research methods and potential pedagogical applications. At the end of the module, you will be able to use terminology appropriately, synthesize the most relevant ideas, and evaluate the advantages and weaknesses of various research studies. You will develop the understanding and knowledge necessary for interdisciplinary research at the intersection of linguistics, cognitive studies and pedagogy.

As with all the modules on this programme, learning and teaching is by distance learning, with resources adjustable to your individual needs and availability. The module handbook guides you through relevant topics in conjunction with recommended reading. The handbook includes exercises, which encourage you to reflect on and interact with the knowledge you are acquiring. The module tutor is available by email to answer any queries you might have and to give feedback on the exercises you complete, so you know at several points during the module how you are performing.

This module will provide a broad introduction to up-to-date theory, methods, and tools in Corpus Linguistics – a field of linguistics that uses computers to investigate and analyse large collections (corpora) of language data. The module emphasises the practical experience and application of aspects covered in the module and you will be encouraged to apply your learning to suitable language data during assessment.

The module will begin by covering the development of the field of Corpus Linguistics, which includes a broad focus on how Corpus Linguistics has been and may be applied to the analysis of language variation and change. Issues concerning corpus construction (data collection, annotation, etc.) will then be covered highlighting how different kinds of corpora can be used to address the requirements of different kinds of research before focussing on the kinds of software tools and methods that can be used to analysed these corpora. Latterly, the module will focus on the use of corpora and Corpus Linguistic methods to address research questions in a range of linguistic disciplines. The first half of the module will concentrate on theory and methods, and the second half will focus on application. Student progress will be continually monitored throughout the course with quizzes taking a central role in the consolidation of knowledge.

As with all modules on this programme, learning and teaching is individual by distance learning. Prescribed textbooks are accompanied by additional materials made available through the University’s virtual learning environment to guide you through your study. Non-assessed exercises are provided so you can practise applying the knowledge you acquire to the skills of analysis. The module tutor is available by email to answer any queries you might have and to give feedback on the exercises you complete, so you know at several points during the module how you are performing.

The purpose of the module is to enable you to undertake a sustained, in-depth and theoretically informed research project exploring an area that is of personal interest to you. It is important that we can support you appropriately, so you will be guided towards choosing a research topic which is relevant to your discipline and in which your lecturers have expertise. The outcome may take the form of a written dissertation or a practical outcome with accompanying reflective, critical and contextual material. The main consideration when choosing your topic is that it must be relevant to your programme and you should consider the relevance of this topic to your future academic or professional development.

At this level, you will be expected to work independently but you will receive additional one-to-one support from your supervisor, who will be familiar with your chosen topic area.

This module is an opportunity for you to develop skills which will contribute to the acquisition of key. BCU graduate attributes; creative problem solvers, enterprising, professional and work ready and global outlook. In the context of the creative and cultural industries and at this academic level, this means an ability to: create work which is of a professional standard relevant to the discipline; undertake successful project planning to a professional standard, which may include budgetary and other relevant constraints; innovate and experiment; to self-evaluate and reflect critically on your work, situating your practice within the context of relevant academic/professional debates within your chosen medium.