This module examines the languages that occurs in online contexts, such as social network sites, websites, blogs and video-sharing sites. We will cover a range of methods used in computer-mediated discourse analysis and media sociolinguistics. During the module, we will explore digitally mediated language through a series of case studies, and question what counts as ‘languages’ in multimodal communication, the multi-layered nature of context and the ongoing relationship between language use and ideology. The module explores the use of language and media across a range of global contexts, questioning how best we can analyse this fast-changing form of communication. Where appropriate, students will have the opportunity to develop their own skills in digital content creation, showing how the scholarship in the field informs their own practice.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Demonstrate the ability to independently collect and prepare data ethically from online contexts.
Analyse the relevant linguistic features and language practices found in different online contexts using appropriate research methods.
Demonstrate knowledge of and engage critically with the scholarly debates in thefield of computer-mediated communication.
Evaluate the relationship between language use, media and socio-cultural context.
Assessment
24805-03 : Essay : Coursework (100%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions
Assessment: Portfolio equivalent to 4000-words (100%)
Method of Reassessment: Portfolio equivalent to 4000-words (100%)
