Neurolinguistics: Language & the Brain - LAN00035H

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  • Department: Language and Linguistic Science
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: H
  • Academic year of delivery: 2023-24

Module summary

The module aims to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge regarding the neural bases of language, focusing on areas involved in language comprehension, with a particular emphasis on the relationship between neurolinguistics and linguistic theory.

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 2 2023-24

Module aims

  • The module aims to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge regarding the neural bases of language, focusing on areas involved in language comprehension.

  • The module further aims to help the students understand the relationship between neurolinguistics and linguistic theory.

Module learning outcomes

  • Understand the basics of neurocognition, including basic knowledge of brain anatomy and neuroimaging methods

  • Know a state-of-the-art picture of the neural bases of language and language processing

  • Know how neurolinguistics both informs and is informed by linguistic theory

  • Have experience reading and critiquing primary research in neurolinguistics

Module content

The module will cover the following topics:

  • A brief summary of brain anatomy and function

  • An introduction to the methodologies used in studying the brain, including aphasiology and technologies such as fMRI, EEG, and MEG.

  • An overview of the neurolinguistic understanding of various linguistic topics, including speech perception, reading, the lexicon, morphology, syntax and semantics.

  • An in-depth look at one or two narrow areas of research, to allow the students to get a sense of what the neurolinguistic literature looks like. The specific topics will vary each year.

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 65
Open Exam (6-day week) 35

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 65
Open Exam (6-day week) 35

Module feedback

Written and oral feedback for formative work within 1-2 weeks.

Written feedback for summative work within 25 days.

Indicative reading

Brennan, Jonathan R. (2022) Language and the brain: A slim guide to neurolinguistics. Oxford University Press