SFBS30221 Linguistic and literary research methods (Spring 2026)

The course provides an overview and a comprehensive understanding of the methods and theoretical foundations used in linguistic and literary research. It thus lays the foundation for the work on the bachelor's thesis, to which it is directly related.

The linguistic part consists of the following components:

• Language as an object of study (introduction) and various methods in linguistics
• Sociolinguistics
• Corpus linguistics: oral language, texts, etc.

The literary part consists of the following components:

• Literature as an object of study (introduction) and various methodological approaches to literature
• Analysis of literature and other types of fiction texts
• Central areas within modern literary theory, the evolution from biographical approaches through text- and reader-oriented theories to today's diversity and interest in the power and emotional impact of literature.

In the teaching, the various methods in the subject are illuminated from different perspectives and elaborated in explanations with discussions around relevant texts. Students are trained in applying the methods and analyzing current texts, explaining the most important and frequently used methods, and the various results that research can contribute to.

Knowledge

The student

• has knowledge of modern approaches to language and literature studies, and familiarity with the main lines of various methods.
• has knowledge of methods and techniques used by language and literature researchers in the analysis of language and literature.
• has insight into the main issues in theoretical and methodological aspects of language and literature studies.

Skills

The student

• can outline the main approaches to working with language and literature.
• can apply relevant concepts, language, and literary theory to various types of texts.

General Competence

The student

• has established a foundation and conceptual framework to understand research in language and literature.
• can differentiate between various methods and approaches to language and literature.
• has developed the ability for critical reflection.

It is required at least 75% attendance in the classes. 2-4 smaller written assignments, submitted through Canvas, related to the coursework, with references to relevant course literature. In addition, commenting on the assignments of other students is required.

The required coursework is assessed as approved / not approved. Course requirements must be approved before the student can proceed to the exam.

Part 1 of the examination

Individual written essay, linguistic method.

About 1,000 words, exclusive footnotes, bibliography and any illustrations.

The topic for the essay and further guidelines are made available on the college's digital learning platform.

The work should contain concrete examples and be linked to the specialist literature. The deadline for submission is given at the start of the semester.

Grade scale A-F.

Part 2 of the examination

Individual written essay, literary method.

About 1,000 words, exclusive footnotes, bibliography and any illustrations.

The topic for the essay and further guidelines are made available on the college's digital learning platform.

The work should contain concrete examples and be linked to the specialist literature. The deadline for submission is given at the start of the semester.

Grade scale A-F.

Feedback from our students is essential for us to be able to offer the best possible courses and study programs. The course is evaluated every semester.

Results are processed by/in:

• Teaching team
• Head of studies
• Programme committee