230172 Computational Variationist Linguistics (S) (SoSe 2023)

Computational linguistics has enabled researchers to investigate very large datasets which would not be possible by hand. This includes (notably) research into semantic phenomena, but also syntactic and pragmatic topics.

In this class, we will be exploring the small (but expanding) field of computational variationist linguistics. After an introduction to the field (including a brief introduction to computational linguistics and variationist linguistics by themselves), we will look at a few select studies, and in the end, students will work on their own small-scale investigations. This will include analysing data with computational methods in Excel, Python, R, or any other appropriate tool. Students do not need any previous programming experience (though you are welcome to join if you do!).

Requirements for participation, required level

• Completed BM3
• Completed at least one of the linguistics classes from PM2/PM3/PM4

Bibliography

Readings will be made available in the Lernraum. Please check the Lernraum before the first session for announcements. Also make sure to come to the first meeting if you want to participate or let me know if you can’t make it to the first session. Otherwise, your spot may be given to other students who need it. Requirements for course credit will be laid out in the first session.