SEL8500 : Research Methods in Language and Linguistics
SEL8500 : Research Methods in Language and Linguistics
- Offered for Year: 2024/25
- Module Leader(s): Dr Gabriel Martinez Vera
- Co-Module Leader: Miss Louise Cowan
- Owning School: English Lit, Language & Linguistics
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.
Semester 1 Credit Value: | 10 |
Semester 2 Credit Value: | 10 |
ECTS Credits: | 10.0 |
European Credit Transfer System | |
Pre-requisite
Modules you must have done previously to study this module
Pre Requisite Comment
N/A
Co-Requisite
Modules you need to take at the same time
Co Requisite Comment
N/A
Aims
The module equips students with the methodological skills set as well as the analytical and critical abilities required to conduct PGT level research. More specifically, the module will:
• equip students with a wide range of tools required to carry out research in linguistics, including their chosen subfield
• enable students to critically appraise published research
• hone students' writing skills, with particular focus on argumentation
• develop students' oral skills in presenting their own work
Outline Of Syllabus
SEMESTER 1
Linguistics component
- Focus on the scientific research process
Library component
- Introduction to the Library’s resources and services
- Searching the research literature
- Referencing and annotation software
- Scholarly communication in the 21st century
SEMESTER 2
Linguistics component
- Focus on data analysis skills
- Dissertation preparation
Library component
- Library refresher
Learning Outcomes
Intended Knowledge Outcomes
Students that have successfully completed the module will:
• understand the range of methodologies applied in linguistics and English Language.
• be cognisant of the potential problems associated with data retrieval and handling.
• have specialist knowledge of the methodologies applied in their area of interest.
• the nature and goals of research, including ethical considerations; the design and implementation of sound empirical investigation; the ability to use computerised tools developed for assisting linguistics/English language research and the application of basic statistical analysis of data.
Intended Skill Outcomes
Students that have successfully completed the module will, in general (and with respect to their own area of research interest), be able to:
• demonstrate awareness of the range of approaches in linguistics and English Language.
• use a variety of tools to conduct linguistic analyses.
• carry out a small-scale investigation and be prepared to conduct a larger research project.
• identify, select and draw upon a wide range of research resources, printed and electronic.
• use information technology appropriately to support their research.
• read critically.
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 160:00 | 160:00 | N/A |
Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 20 | 1:00 | 20:00 | N/A |
Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Small group teaching | 20 | 1:00 | 20:00 | N/A |
Total | 200:00 |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
Lectures will be used primarily to impart information and provide an overall coherence for the module.
Seminars, tutorials and practicals will build skills as well as focus on problem-solving and numeracy. They also aim to enhance interpretation of divergent approaches to language, improve oral presentation skills and build team work in a specific area.
Semester 2 will focus on developing students' skills needed for their dissertations.
Reading Lists
Assessment Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Other Assessment
Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
---|---|---|---|---|
Essay | 1 | A | 50 | Critical evaluation of research methods (1,000 words) |
Research proposal | 2 | A | 50 | Summative 2,000 word essay detailing research proposal |
Formative Assessments
Formative Assessment is an assessment which develops your skills in being assessed, allows for you to receive feedback, and prepares you for being assessed. However, it does not count to your final mark.
Description | Semester | When Set | Comment |
---|---|---|---|
Written exercise | 1 | M | Formative 1,000 word scaffolded diagnostic essay |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The assessment measures students' incremental development in the skills underpinning the processes involved in carrying out shorter and longer pieces of work in linguistics or English language in general, and in their specific area of interest.
NOTE: This module receives a numerical mark that contributes to the student's degree.
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- SEL8500's Timetable
Past Exam Papers
- Exam Papers Online : www.ncl.ac.uk/exam.papers/
- SEL8500's past Exam Papers
General Notes
N/A
Welcome to Newcastle University Module Catalogue
This is where you will be able to find all key information about modules on your programme of study. It will help you make an informed decision on the options available to you within your programme.
You may have some queries about the modules available to you. Your school office will be able to signpost you to someone who will support you with any queries.
Disclaimer
The information contained within the Module Catalogue relates to the 2024 academic year.
In accordance with University Terms and Conditions, the University makes all reasonable efforts to deliver the modules as described.
Modules may be amended on an annual basis to take account of changing staff expertise, developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback. Module information for the 2025/26 entry will be published here in early-April 2025. Queries about information in the Module Catalogue should in the first instance be addressed to your School Office.