LLC4010 - European Language Policy

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit provides an introduction to European language policy. It examines Europe's standard languages, their origins and their current status vis a vis a multitude of regional and social dialects. It introduces European models of dealing with multilingualism within a nation-state and draws attention to the relationship between language policy and social change. It discusses issues such as language and education, linguistic diversity, minority languages, linguistic purism, and language as an aspect of social equality. The unit considers European responses to these issues from a variety of perspectives by studying a wide range of texts in the area of language policy and planning.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students should be familiar with, and have an understanding of significant aspects of language policy in Europe from the Renaissance to the present. They should be familiar with the research tradition of language planning and policy, and be able to apply relevant terms and concepts. They should be able to discuss and review research literature in field of language planning and policy, as well as language-political legislation (including constitutional texts). They should be able to conduct independent research, to present their results orally and in written exposition (including planning, arguing on the basis of evidence, and documenting), and to engage in team work and critical academic discussion of information and argument.

Assessment

One essay (6000 words, 70%), one class paper (oral presentation, hurdle requirement; written up in 3000 words, 30%).

Contact hours

12 one-hour lectures and 12 one-hour tutorials

Prohibitions

LLC4010(H), LLC5010