Course info

The course is intended to explore a map of multilingual Europe, focusing on in its linguistic diversity and multilingual identity. The course aims to increase general awareness concerning bi/multilingualism; promote knowledge concerning linguistic diversity in Europe and beyond, and discuss issues related to multilingual identity and language policy. We wish to make state-of-the-art research findings accessible to course participants to help them make informed decisions on language learning and use and, in particular,to encourage the exploration of the multilingual landscape of Europe resulting in a co-created multilingual map developed by the course participants. The course is divided into three interactive units. (1) Multilingualism and Diversity. In this unit, students will learn more about varying types of multilingualism, factors in multilingual development, and theoretical models of multiple language learning. (2) Multilingualism and Place. In this unit, students will consider language in context using European cities as case studies. Multilingualism has long been a hallmark of cities; however, it has become even more so given worldwide migration patterns. These places can be characterized as superdiverse a sociological term indicating a population of above-average social, cultural, and economic variety. We will explore multilingualism as both an endemic urban feature and as a research methodology. (3) Multilingualism and Identity. In this unit, students will use knowledge obtained thus far to think about the role of language in identity formation and the presentation of self. We will explore topics ranging from multilingual language policy to supposed advantages and disadvantages of multilingualism to how language impacts emotion.