History of Linguistics and Modern Linguistic Concepts

The course is devoted to a comprehensive study of the linguistic science history. Students will learn about key theories, schools and trends, tracing the path of development of linguistics: from ancient views on the language to modern concepts such as cognitive and generative linguistics. Special attention is paid to how historical ideas formed the basis of modern methods of language research, as well as the contribution of outstanding scientists who shaped linguistics as an independent scientific discipline.

The course includes lectures, additional materials, practical independent tasks aimed at developing skills of critical analysis of theories, identifying links between the linguistic approaches and applying the knowledge to solve practical problems in the language research and teaching.

The course includes 2 modules and 8 topics. There are:

• short video lectures (up to 15 minutes) with analysis of key ideas and examples;
• e-notes on each topic;
• tasks with automatic verification;
• practical assignments;
• additional materials for extra study.

You can complete the course at a comfortable pace, return to the materials, and practice your skills as much as you need to.

The course includes audio podcasts with invited experts who will share their professional views on the development of linguistic science and its modern trends.

References to additional literature and sources are provided in the course materials, where you can gain a deeper understanding of the history of linguistics and modern linguistic concepts.

To successfully complete the course, a basic background in the humanities is recommended—preferably in linguistics, philology, or related disciplines. Knowledge of fundamental linguistic concepts and terminology, as well as a general understanding of language and culture, will be useful. Experience in the educational or research field is not required but may serve as an additional advantage during the course.

Module 1. The Origin and Development of the Science of Language
Topic 1. From Antiquity to the Renaissance
Topic 2. Linguistics and Philosophy
Topic 3. Comparative Historical Linguistics

Module 2. Linguistics of the 19th-20th Centuries and the New Theory of Language
Topic 4. Language as a System
Topic 5. Sociolinguistics
Topic 6. Foreign Linguistics of the 20th Century
Topic 7. Russian linguistics of the 20th Century
Topic 8. Modern Linguistics
 

During the course, you will learn about the main stages and directions of the development of linguistic thought: from ancient concepts to modern theories. You'll study:

• the main stages and directions of the development of linguistic thought, starting from antiquity and ending with modern theories;
• key theories, schools, and scientists who influenced the formation of linguistics as a scientific discipline;
• modern approaches in linguistics;
• the influence of historical concepts on modern language research.

As a result of the training, you will better:

• critically analyze linguistic theories, identify their interrelationships and differences;
• apply theoretical knowledge to interpret linguistic data and solve research problems.
• analyze and explain the influence of historical concepts on modern language research and teaching practice.

The course builds the following practical skills:

• critical thinking and analytical approach in the field of linguistics;
• the use of various sources and materials for independent research of linguistic issues;
• work with linguistic data and their interpretation in the context of historical and modern language analysis.

Upon completion of the course, students will gain a holistic understanding of the key stages and directions of the development of linguistics — from ancient theories to modern approaches such as cognitive and generative linguistics. They will be able to analyze and compare various linguistic concepts, identify links between schools and theories, and apply the knowledge gained to interpret linguistic data.

The course develops the skills of critical thinking, independent research and work with linguistic material, which will allow using the acquired knowledge in research and educational practice.

Сертификат выдается в случае достижения слушателем общего прогресса по курсу не менее 70%.