Entry requirements

A Bachelor's degree with the main field of study within social sciences, humanities or religious studies or 120 credits including 90 credits within some religious studies main field of study.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the course, the student is expected to be able to:

Level descriptors

* present the basic characteristics of various models for using discourse analysis as a scientific theory and method

* be able to problematise scientific theoretical matters thoroughly

* demonstrate profound knowledge of one of the analytical specialisations of the course,

Skills

* in a scientifically valid way work with discourse-analytical tools

* operationalise abstract reasonings to practically useful method and theory

* compile and present analysed materials,

* independently plan, structure and write a scientific text, with correct use of academic language, source management and formalities.

Values

* take position to and be able to support an independent argumentation for/against scientific theoretical matters,

* produce independent problem formulations in relation to social and political processes by means of discourse-analytical theory.

Content

Discourse analysis is a generic term for critical civic analysis with roots in semiology, analysis of ideologies analysis and psychoanalysis. Discourse analysis is mainly used to analyse text and speeches but also well suited for the analysis of other types of materials such as image and film.

The course Discourse analysis has two parts.

1) Discourse analysis as scientific theory and method: this part introduces the basic principles of discourse analysis, how discourse analysis can be used in the study of social phenomena such as religion, and how various discourse analytical perspectives and concepts can be operationalized in empirical studies. The main focus is discourse theory as presented by Ernesto Laclau and Chantal Mouffes and critical discourse analysis as presented by Norman Fairclough.

2) Discourse analysis in use for empirical studies: during this part students are given the opportunity to use different discourse-analytical methods on a variety of material. The design of this part depends on the size of the group and will be decided by the teacher at the beginning of the course.

Instruction

The teaching consists of lectures and seminars. Participation in the seminars is mandatory. In the event of a very small number of students, teaching may be conducted through self-study instead.

* Note that teaching may be given in English

Assessment

The course is examined through seminars (2.5 credits) and a written exam (5 credits). Seminars are graded on a Pass/Fail scale. All other examination elements are graded on a Pass/Fail/Pass with distinction scale.

If there are special reasons for doing so, an examiner may make an exception from the method of assessment indicated and allow a student to be assessed by another method. An example of special reasons might be a certificate regarding special pedagogical support from the University's disability coordinator.

Other regulations

A good ability to read English is assumed. The student is expected to work independently throughout the course.

Transitional provisions

Should the course cease to be given or change significantly, examination will be offered according to this syllabus on a further three occasions over three semesters. Under special circumstances, such an examination may also be offered later.