Language Lifecycle: Genesis, Expansion, and Loss

Spring 2012 quarter

Faculty

Richard McKinnon

Fields of Study

linguistics

Description

Languages are not static systems, but exhibit a life cycle just as living organisms do. They are brought into being through pidginization and creolization, grow and change as their function changes and they attain status, and they disappear (presently at an alarming rate). In this course, we'll examine these stages in some detail, acquiring a tool set along the way that will allow participants to understand the cultural, economic, and linguistic factors involved and to appreciate the policy issues in play.

Advertised Schedule

5:30-9:30p Thu

Location

Olympia

Online Learning

Enhanced Online Learning

Books

Greener Store

Offered During

Evening