The unit introduces students to a range of theoretical and methodological approaches to the analysis of discourse. Drawing on both spoken and written texts, we explore how speakers create coherence and cohesion in texts, as well as stylistic differences across genres. Students become familiar with methodologies such as conversation analysis, critical discourse analysis and interactional sociolinguistics and apply these skills in transcribing and analysing real world texts. They also explore the conventions of discourse in workplace, educational, media and political settings and the ways in which language can be used to manipulate, persuade or empower the hearer/ reader. -- Course Website
Instructor: Dr Louisa Willoughby
