Sociolinguistics

This course offers students an advanced introduction to central parts of the sociolinguistic field of research. The study of linguistic variation and change will be given much attention, but other approaches to language as a social phenomenon are also included. Moreover, the course will treat the historical development of the discipline, and both older and newer research literature will be reviewed. The course is general and involves studies from different linguistic communities. Yet, the emphasis will normally be placed on Norwegian cases. An important purpose of the course is to develop good theoretical and methodological skills in the study of different types of language use and language variation.

Knowledge:

The candidate has:

• knowledge of different approaches to language as a social and cultural phenomenon
• knowledge of a wide range of language situations characterized by variation and change
• knowledge of different sociocultural factors that may have relevance for language development and change
• an overview of main features of the development of the sociolinguistic field of research
• insight into central methodological problems within sociolinguistics

Skills:

The candidate can:

• identify, describe, and discuss phenomena of variation in oral language and written language
• apply relevant sociolinguistic theories in the study of different linguistic arenas and linguistic situations - select and utilize methods in the study of different language situations
• exercise critical and independent reflection on the possible consequences of processes of linguistic change - both on an individual and societal level
• make use of an extensive system of concepts within sociolinguistic subject areas
• present the academic content both orally and in writing

Lectures. Obligatory assignments: Written assignment(s) or oral presentation(s). Approved obligatory assignments are valid for 2 semesters (the semester in which the approval is given, plus the following semester). Classes will be taught in Norwegian and/or English.