Sociolinguistics is the study of relations between language and society. This course introduces students to theories concerning a core set of qualitative research methodologies used in sociolinguistic research, as well as hands-on experience in related qualitative methods. Qualitative research involves non-numerical data and it attempts to resist the seductions of quantification. We will explore the theoretical basis underlying the methods of ethnography, semiotic landscape research, and discourse analysis. We will also practice in crafting research questions and fieldwork plans, collecting and analysing qualitative data, and reflecting on research ethics and researcher positionality. No prior knowledge in linguistics or sociolinguistics is assumed, though students are expected to share their own case examples gathered from everyday encounters in lecture as well as workshop discussions.
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Research design
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Fieldwork design
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Research ethics
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Researcher positionality
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Online/offline ethnography
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Linguistic/semiotic landscape
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Discourse analytic approaches
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Doing sociolinguistic research with technology
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To offer students an overview of the qualitative strand of sociolinguistic research.
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To introduce students to the theoretical debates around qualitative methodologies in sociolinguistics.
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To provide students with hands-on experience in major qualitative sociolinguistic methods.
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To guide students in exploring viable approaches to the contemporary sociolinguistic issues prominent across online and offline spaces, and across local and global locales.
On successfully completing the course, students will be able to
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Apply basic qualitative methods in sociolinguistic data collection and analysis.
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Analyze the relative advantages and disadvantages between different qualitative methods.
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Critically evaluate the researcher positionality in fieldwork, data analysis and academic writing.
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Develop a reflexive approach to sociolinguistic research and to sociolinguistic issues in everyday life.
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Three learning journal entries (1000 words each): 45% (15% each)
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Group project: 30%
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In-class project presentation: 20%
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Peer-evaluation of in-class presentations: 10%
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Lecture and workshop engagement: 25%
Required readings will be selected from the following sources (among others):
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Heller, M., Pietikäinen, S., & Pujolar, J. (2018). Critical sociolinguistic research methods: Studying language issues that matter. New York: Routledge.
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Litosseliti, L. (Ed.) (2010). Research methods in linguistics. London: Continuum.
These books are available at the HKU library in print and in electronic forms. Other suggested readings will be announced throughout the term.