SPN4580 - Research in Spanish Linguistics

Leader: Dr Marisa Cordella

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit will provide students with the theoretical and analytical tools to prepare them to undertake an Honours dissertation in Spanish linguistics. Students will build their knowledge in this area by engaging in two small research projects as part of their assessment. Individual appointments are used to

1. promote a culture of research methodologies, and
2. stimulate critical and creative thinking, and
3. discuss topics arising from the reading of relevant papers.

Objectives

The objective of SPN 4580 is to develop a critical way of thinking about theoretical issues in language/discourse research and expand students' knowledge about data analysis and interpretation. On completion, students will:

1. Understand issues dealing with linguistics theory and practice.
2. Know how to collect ethnographic data and understand ethical issues in regards to confidentiality.
3. Be able to analyse language/discourse data following a theoretical framework of analysis.
4. Be able to discuss their research findings by comparing/contrasting them with the literature published in their field of research.
5. Be able to write a research paper following the appropriate format (abstract, introduction, methodology, analysis, discussion, conclusion, bibliography).
6. Have developed an understanding and application of different modes of linguistics analysis.

Assessment

2 Research essays (5,000 words): 60%
Test on discourse analysis (2,000 words): 20%
Test on linguistics theories and practices (2,000 words): 20%

Contact hours

2 hours per week