Overview

A module covering current issues in language policy and planning. Using research-based materials, students will delve into topics such as the typology of language planning, the evaluation of language vitality, and the role of language attitudes in maintaining linguistic diversity. Classes are based on cases studies of language policy & planning across Europe with a particular focus on situations involving regional, minority and contested languages. Students will learn from first-hand research, developing a good understanding of what the current issues in language policy and planning are, and learning how to evaluate potential solutions to current theoretical and methodological challenges.

Representative topics will include: 1. the properties and typology of language planning. 2. language policies across Europe. 3. how to evaluate language vitality and endangerment. 4. language attitudes and their role in language vitality 5. understanding and evaluating methods for the measurement of language attitudes 6. language and social subordination. 7. language maintenance in minority language settings. 8. language contestation

Assessment Strategy

Threshold (D- to D+) Submitted work is adequate and shows an acceptable level of competence as follows: 1.Generally accurate but with omissions and errors.2.Assertions are made without clear supporting evidence or reasoning.3.Has structure but is lacking in clarity and therefore relies on the reader to make links and assumptions.4.Draws on a relatively narrow range of material.

Good (C- to B+) Submitted work is competent throughout and may be distinguished by superior style, approach and choice of supporting materials. It: 1.Demonstrates good or very good structure and logically developed arguments.2.Draws at least in parts on material that has been sourced and assessed as a result of independent study, or in a way unique to the student.3.Assertions are backed by evidence and sound reasoning.4.Accuracy and presentation in an appropriate academic style.

Excellent (A- to A*) Submitted work is of an outstanding quality and excellent in one or more of the following ways: 1.Has originality of exposition with the student’s own thinking being readily apparent.2.Provides clear evidence of extensive and relevant independent study.3.Arguments are laid down with clarity and provide the reader with successive stages of consideration to reach conclusions.

Learning Outcomes

• Analyse and critically evaluate the literature on language policy and planning, its relevance and theoretical as well as methodological contributions.

• Critically evaluate the principles underlying methods for the measurement of linguistic vitality and their outcomes.

• Identify and outline the main issues in the study of language policy and planning.

• Identify, evaluate, and select research methods commonly used in research on language policy and planning.

• Integrate a range of linguistic, social, and political parameters in analyzing situations of language policy and practice in various multilingual settings.