Syllabus for Cognitive Linguistics

Decisions and guidelines

The course is an independent course. It is furthermore included as optional module in Linguistics B or C.

Learning outcomes

The course intends to provide basic theoretical and methodological knowledge in the area of cognitive linguistics with a certain focus on vocabulary.

On completion of the course, to earn the grade Pass the student should at least be able to:
- use basic concepts in their analysis such as categorisation, semantic frame, prototype, metaphor, metonym and blending;
- critically make use of methods developed within corpus-based cognitive linguistics;
- read and evaluate from a linguistic perspective recent publications in the cognitive science of language;
- actively and independently participate in seminar discussions by presenting research assignments in cognitive linguistics.

Content

The course gives an overview of the basic concerns of cognitive linguistics: the structural characteristics of natural language categorization (such as prototypicality, systematic polysemy, cognitive models, mental imagery and metaphor); the functional principles of linguistic organisation (such as iconicity and naturalness); the conceptual interface between syntax and semantics (as explored by cognitive grammar and construction grammar); the experiential and pragmatic background of language-in-use; and the relationship between language and thought, including questions about relativism and conceptual universals.

Instruction

The instruction consists of lectures, exercises and assessment. An important element is individual home assignments, mainly in the form of shorter studies based on data in a language familiar to the student. The student's own learning activities are crucial for the completion of the course.

Assessment

The students show the results of their learning through a combination of assessment components continuous during the course or at the end of the course. The assessment may be oral or written. Active attendance is required at group exercise sessions at presentations (e.g. of home assignment) and written examination.

Other directives

The course may not be included in a degree if the equivalent parts have been studied within another course included in the degree.