Introduction to linguistic method

On completion of the course, the student will be able to:

• account for basic types of data used in linguistic research
• apply basic qualitative and quantitative methods for analysing linguistic data
• critically discuss the limitations of commonly used methods for answering research questions about language
• reason on how to interpret linguistic results, including how to evaluate what kind of information a given method can offer and how to estimate the potential range of variables that can affect results in linguistic research
• critically evaluate linguistic data presented in previous research
• apply different techniques for presenting both qualitative and quantitative linguistic data in scholarly writing.

This course is an introduction to key approaches to the analysis of linguistic data. Students will learn about both qualitative and quantitative methods for analysing English language data. The methods will be applied and critically evaluated throughout the course, through actual data analysis in a workshop setting. Students will also gain some experience annotating or coding linguistic data based on a couple of sample models from the literature. Students will also explore ways of drawing on linguistic data from previous research, such as applying the scientific principle of replicating a study; this involves reviewing guidelines for academic integrity. The focus will be on using already available linguistic data, but there will also be some coverage of methods for collecting one’s own data, in ways which follow guidelines for research ethics. Students will also reflect on ways of presenting linguistic data in scholarly writing, such as a BA degree thesis.

The course is examined through continuous assessment of written assignments and seminar participation.

The course is taught in the form of lectures and seminars, which include workshops and group work. All teaching is conducted in English.

The Swedish grades U–VG.