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In recent years, the study of language variation and change has extended to include a new and thrilling area of research: electronic variation, also known as ‛Netspeak’. This seminar will be concerned with new forms of correspondence such as text messaging, e-mail and chat, and their effect on English and other on-line languages. While some people are concerned that the new technology may have a negative impact on language use, others, like David Crystal, argue the reverse: the new media have encouraged a dramatic expansion in the variety and creativity of language. Our goal in this seminar will, therefore, be to investigate these issues, as well as to collect data from the different media which can be analysed and used for academic research. No previous technical knowledge is required. However, this course will be most fun for students who are themselves enthusiastic users of the Internet.
Preparatory reading:
David Crystal. 2010. The Cambridge Encyclopedia of the English Language. Cambridge University Press. p. 424–433 |
