Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

Language plays important roles in social inclusion and exclusion. The identity function of language marks and performs in- and out-group membership and contributes to the development of hybrid identities. This unit gives students an overview of research perspectives and theoretical issues, and then devolve into focused teams to research particular topics in depth, from different theoretical perspectives. Research areas include: inclusive language and political correctness; language and the migrant experience, language maintenance and code choice; medical consultations and interpreting services; language policy; indigenous language maintenance, contact languages and social justice.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students will:

1. have first-hand experience of the conduct of research;
2. be equipped with the tools to carry out a small research project on language and social inclusion;
3. be experienced in the interpersonal aspects of team work, and the contributions of members with different skill sets;
4. understand the stages in researching social data, and the way in which different projects have different needs;
5. have experience of delivering findings at an in-class conference;
6. have the chance to submit mentored work for publication.

Assessment

Literature Review (500 words): 11%
Methods (500 words): 11%
Data analysis (500 words): 11%
Commentary (500 words): 11%
Present (500 words): 11%
Final Report (2000 words): 45%

Contact hours

One 1-hour lecture (whole class)
One 2-hour workshops per week (groups of 20)