Language in Mind

Description

Synopsis: How does the human mind make sense of language? In this module, you’ll explore how we learn, produce, and understand language from a psycholinguistic perspective. You’ll investigate what happens in the brain when we use language, how we process words and sentences in real time, and why we sometimes make mistakes — and what those errors can reveal about how language works. You’ll also consider how language development and processing can be affected by neurological or developmental conditions, gaining insights into both typical and atypical language use. Whether you're interested in first or second language learning, this module will help you understand how language lives in the mind. Notes: Only available to Visting and Exchange students if they have had an introduction to language studies or linguistics OR also take up ALE1004. Syllabus: Topics to be covered may include : The relationship between language and the brain, including language localisation and processing First and second language acquisition from a psycholinguistic perspective Real-time language processing at word, sentence, and discourse levels Language production, comprehension, and error patterns Cognitive and neurological factors affecting typical and atypical language use Delivery: Primarily on Campus Contact Hours: 11 * 2hr seminar, 11* 1hr computer lab/ quiz 11 Lectures are pre-recorded (not included in formal contact hours) Learning Outcomes: By the end of this module the student should be able to: 1. Describe and illustrate key arguments that explain why language is considered a unique and innate human attribute, using relevant examples; 2. Summarize the biological foundations of language and of language disorders by evaluating linguistic knowledge in practical contexts. 3. Compare models of language production and processing in the individual mind to explore how contextual factors influence language use across different communities. 4. Analyse and interpret linguistic data and discourse, applying appropriate analytical frameworks to examine language loss in real-world contexts. Transferable Skills: Professional Competence Analyse language data closely to enhance their skills of manipulating and understanding language. Quantify language data using tables and charts. Take notes effectively, in classes and from your own readings. Work independently; demonstrate initiative, self-organization and time-management. Innovative Thinkers Manage your own learning self-critically. Research focused topics in appropriate books, journals and electronic sources. Effective Communicators Critically evaluate academic texts. Extrapolate a coherent argument based on a range of evidence, both orally and in writing. Collaborative Leaders Critically examine the use and processing of language to convey meaning in diverse contexts. Assessment Method: Class Test 1, Coursework 1