230181 Corpus Linguistics (S) (SoSe 2024)

With the rise of digital texts and data processing, linguists have become able to investigate language in ways that previously were impossible. Digital corpora enable us to look at vast quantities of data, and to easily compare their findings across different corpora. This means we can compare between genres, dialects, and time periods, but also by speakers’ sociolinguistic characteristics, such as age, gender, and more.

This class will start out with some theoretical input on corpus linguistics, but the main aim is for students to work with corpora themselves and conduct small-scale corpus research studies.

You will need access to a digital device, preferably a PC or laptop. You will not necessarily need to bring this to class, though it may be beneficial.

Requirements for participation, required level

Students in the old BA programme (who started before SoSe2023): it is strongly recommended that you have completed BM1 (by passing the language proficiency test) and BM3 (by passing the exam). If you have taken a variation-focussed class (such as Accents and Dialects in Britain/''the US'', Multilingual Britain, etc.), that will be an advantage.

Students in the new BA programme (who started in SoSe2023 or later, or switched programmes voluntarily) are required to have completed Basis1 (by passing the language proficiency test). I also strongly recommend that you have completed Basis3 – especially the introductory lectures.

If you are in the M. Ed., these requirements are not relevant for you.

Bibliography

Readings will be made available in the moodle.