African Languages: Typology and Linguistic Structures

The course is offered as a freestanding course.

To be admitted to the course, students must have completed (a) a minimum of 5 hec from the course AF1111 Introduction to Linguistics and African Languages, and 15 hec from courses in non-European languages spoken in Africa or 15 hec in linguistics, alternatively (b) a minimum of 30 hec in linguistics, or the equivalent

Exception is made to the requirement for Swedish as a general entry requirement.

The course aims to introduce the student to language typology as a scientific field and to further develop the student's understanding of linguistic structures in general and in African languages ​​in particular. The focus is on sound systems, morphology and syntax, as well as on searching for information about the structure of individual languages, presenting such information in written form and discussing various linguistic issues. In addition, the course deals with reading and writing strategies relevant to academic communication. Through writing exercises and analysis of, for example, scientific articles and bachelor's theses, the students practice the ability to present, discuss and write scientific text in English.

On successful completion of the course, the student should be able to:

Knowledge and understanding

• from a typological perspective, give an account of a relatively extensive linguistic conceptual apparatus and use these concepts to describe chosen grammatical structures in representative African languages, mainly with regard to phonology, morphology and syntax;
• from a typological perspective, problematise linguistic terms and concepts used in the description of African languages;
• show knowledge of basic writing strategies for academic communication in English; 

Competence and skills

• in speech and writing, use a relevant linguistic conceptual apparatus in typological discussions of grammatical issues; 
• in speech and writing, give an account of and analyse grammatical phenomena in African languages and practically apply acquired theoretical knowledge;
• independently write short academic texts in English with a good structure and without disturbing deviations from the standard language as regards terminology, language accuracy and formal conventions of the text;

Judgement and approach

• relate to the course literature and make independent and critical reflections on the basis of the same;
• problematise and evaluate different scholarly approaches within the subject area;
• show academic integrity and honesty in the handling of sources.

The course is offered as an online course via the learning platform of the University of Gothenburg. The teaching is conducted in the form of lectures and seminars, and written and oral exercises carried out individually and/or in small groups.

Language of instruction: English

To what extent students have achieved the aims of the course is tested continuously through oral and written assignments, and through a written examination, oral presentation and discussion at the end of the course.

A student who has failed a course item is eligible for a retake exam/assignment.

In connection with written assignments, supplementary assignments may be offered in order for the student to achieve a Pass grade. Such a supplementary assignment should be done within the stipulated time (normally five working days after the result has been posted). Otherwise a Fail grade will be reported.

A student who has completed an exam/assignment with a passing grade is not eligible for a retake for the purpose of receiving a higher grade. Nor may a student withdraw a test/assignment once it has been submitted for the purpose of avoiding receiving a grade for the work.

If a student who has been failed twice for the same examination element wishes to change examiner before the next examination session, such a request is to be granted unless there are specific reasons to the contrary (Chapter 6 Section 22 HF).

If a student has received a certificate of disability study support from the University of Gothenburg with a recommendation of adapted examination and/or adapted forms of assessment, an examiner may decide, if this is consistent with the course’s intended learning outcomes and provided that no unreasonable resources would be needed, to grant the student adapted examination and/or adapted forms of assessment.

If a course has been discontinued or undergone major changes, the student must be offered at least two examination sessions in addition to ordinary examination sessions. These sessions are to be spread over a period of at least one year but no more than two years after the course has been discontinued/changed. The same applies to placement and internship (VFU) except that this is restricted to only one further examination session.

If a student has been notified that they fulfil the requirements for being a student at Riksidrottsuniversitetet (RIU student), to combine elite sports activities with studies, the examiner is entitled to decide on adaptation of examinations if this is done in accordance with the Local rules regarding RIU students at the University of Gothenburg.

The grading scale comprises: Pass with Distinction (VG), Pass (G) and Fail (U). For the grade Pass with Distinction (VG) on the whole course, this grade is required on the final written examination.

The results of and possible changes to the course will be shared with students who participated in the evaluation and students who are starting the course.

Equality aspects should be taken into consideration in content, literature, teaching and evaluation.

To follow a web-based course, students must have access to a computer, web camera and stable broadband connection.