UNIVERSITY MODULES

SUGGESTED ASSIGNMENT AND ESSAY QUESTIONS

View or download suggested assignment and essay questions

MODULE SUMMARY:

In this module, students will learn about language policies and education in multilingual settings. Using suggested video clip from the documentary Kanraxël as a springboard for reflections, students will discuss the impact of language policies in postcolonial countries, particularly with regards to language use in institutional context. The students will consider the advantages and disadvantages of multilingual vs. monolingual education systems.

MODULE SUMMARY:
In this module, students will critically reflect on the usefulness of video for sociolinguistic research. They will watch suggested video clips from the “ethnofiction” documentary Kanraxël and will analyse the effectiveness of the clips for research/dissemination purposes. Students will put into practice what they have learned through an interview exercise. Furthermore, students will be introduced to methodological issues of conducting research in a multilingual setting or through translation.

MODULE SUMMARY:
This module introduces students to the concept of linguistic repertoire and the relation of repertoires to the social constructs of named languages, dialects, and linguistic varieties. Using suggested video clips and with the background information on the clips, students will discuss how repertoire is linked to life history and will conduct practical exercises on questionnaires and language portraits.

MODULE SUMMARY:
Students will be introduced to terms such as official languages, languages of wider communication and patrimonial languages. Using suggested video clips from Kanraxël, and drawing on their own experiences, students will discuss how repertoires associated with different named languages are used in different spheres, i.e. Baïnounk Gujaher in the village of Agnack Grand. The module uses readings, discussions and presentations to prepare for a debate on the importance of using certain languages for certain functions.

MODULE SUMMARY:
This module looks at context-dependent language use through the lens of language attitudes and how these can impact real-life multilingual settings. Through thought-provoking exercises and discussions, and using suggested video clips, students are encouraged to reflect critically on their own attitudes and those in wider society to see how these affect language use in social networks in multilingual settings.

INDEX
THE FILM
THE PROJECT
UNIVERSITY TEACHING RESOURCES
SCHOOL TEACHING RESOURCES