Language and Communication in the Digital Age

Why should I take this Trinity Elective?

Language determines how we relate to each other. It creates the culture within which we exist and has a major role in determining our self identity. Language is much more than words or sentences – it can be verbal or non-verbal, interpersonal or with a machine. We need to understand how language ‘works’ and how meaningful communication is constructed. This knowledge can in turn be incorporated into human-computer interaction systems. This Trinity Elective will consider how technology may influence the transmission of languages and the implications this may have for minority or endangered languages. If the intersection of linguistics and technology peaks your curiosity, this is the Trinity Elective for you!

What will I learn?

You will learn about language - how it ‘works’ and how it enables us to communicate with one another.
You will learn about challenges confronting linguistic communities in Ireland and around the world.
You will explore language learning and critically analyse the usefulness of language technology.
You will learn about the latest research in speech and language technologies, focusing particularly on the research being carried out in the School of Linguistic, Speech and Communication Sciences.

What will I do?

Attend a series of lectures introducing various aspects of language and communication.
Reflect on the interdisciplinary nature of language study and explore possible relationships between it and your own experience and field of study.
Engage in online interactive activities/quizzes.
Work collaboratively with a team to design and develop your own digital artefact.

How will this be delivered?

This is a blended module with both online and face-to-face delivery
2-hour face-to-face lectures (Weeks 1, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12) – approx. 12 hours.
Fortnightly online activities based on the previous week’s lecture material (Weeks 2, 4, 6, 9, 11) – approx. 20 hours.
Reading/group project work/assessments – approx. 60 hours.

How will this be assessed?

Multiple choice questions, online exercises and quizzes:understanding of lecture content (30%)
Personal learning journal: reflecting on topics studied (20%)
Webpage design and development (group work): communicating understanding of a specific aspect of the course (50%)