On this course, you will learn how to analyse language data in written or orthographically transcribed form, as unfortunately our time-scale does not allow us to discuss phonetic/phonological analyses as well. For detailed discussions on the analysis of spoken data, you can consult the pages for my Phonetics & Phonology and Practical Phonetics courses.
In order to achieve our aim, we’ll explore ways of obtaining the relevant data and will take a look at some computer programs that will help us to conduct our analyses. By the end of the course, you will be aware of the different issues involved in collecting and analysing linguistic – as well as literary – data, and will be able to apply your knowledge in your own research projects. Before we start discussing these issues, though, let’s take a few minutes to define the notion of data analysis properly.
The outline and linked pages below are based on a previous course and will probably be revised throughout this course.
In order to obtain a certificate for this course, you will have to participate actively in the course – which obviously requires regular attendance –, as well as submitting three to four short pieces of homework that demonstrate your mastery of various analysis skills.