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TRAN854: Linguistics of Signed Languages
Availability : |
X2 |
Credit Points |
4 |
Convenor(s) |
Assoc Prof Trevor Johnston |
Unit Web Site |
None |
Description
The purpose of the subject is to introduce the student to the linguistics of signed languages, with particular reference to Auslan (Australian Sign Language). This unit focuses on issues related to signed language phonology (the structure of signs), morphology (how signs are formed and modified), syntax (the structure of signed phrases and sentences), and semantics (how meaning is expressed in signed languages). Some of the major findings related to signed language variation and use (sociolinguistics) will be explored, as well as aspects of signed language change (historical linguistics). In addition, an overview of the first language acquisition literature (how children learn signed languages) and the most recent research in psycholinguistics (how signed languages are processed in the brain) will be included.