PSY3160 - Psychology of language

Leader: Dr Greg Yelland

Offered

Clayton First semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit begins with an overview of the general principles of psycholinguistics, the richness and complexity of language phenomena and a consideration of the high levels of skill that support our routine use of language. Lectures explore selected topics from psycholinguistic research: the structure of the language processor, the nature of its development, and disorders of language. Compulsory attendance at weekend schools is required for all off-campus students.

Objectives

On completion of this unit, students will have:

1. acquired knowledge of fundamental issues underpinning modern psycholinguistics, including areas such as the structure of the processing system supporting our use of language, the child's acquisition of spoken and written language forms, and the nature of the deficits underlying a variety of language disorders;

2. gained an understanding of the contemporary research, theoretical and applied issues in psycholinguistics and have developed the skills necessary to critically appraise the current literature;

3. been exposed to a range of research paradigms used to examine language processing in participants ranging from the youngest and least experienced language users through to experienced and highly skilled, and have acquired the necessary skills to apply these techniques to a research problem; and

4. further developed skills in research design and statistical analysis, written and oral communication, and the use of modern information technologies, that are fostered in the core undergraduate psychology program, with particular emphasis on the relevance of these skills to the field of psycholinguistics.

Assessment

Examination: 50%
Laboratory report(2000 words): 30%
Laboratory short reports: 10%
Online tasks: 10%
Hurdle requirement: 75% lab attendance

Contact hours

Two 1-hour lectures and 2 hours of laboratory related activity per week

Off Campus Attendance Requirements

Compulsory attendance at weekend schools is required for all off-campus students.

Prerequisites

PSY2011 and PSY2022 or PSY2051

Prohibitions

PSY3162