HENKE2302U English - Free topic B: Sociolinguistic perspectives on English and Globalization

Globalisation is commonly described as one of the key impact factors on human societies and sociality, and English is often considered the language of globalisation – not least in Denmark. The English language is used in many places for different purposes and many, though far from all, have English as part of their linguistic repertoires. Therefore, this course will explore questions that highlight temporal and contextual aspects of English and globalization, as well as how English as a global language functions and is experienced: What are the historical and present-day relations between English and globalization? What are the functions of English as a global language? How are English and globalisation experienced by speakers? 

The course is based on the English and Globalization in Denmark research project. It aims to introduce students to theories as well as diachronic and synchronic studies of English, sociolinguistics and globalization. This will enable students to understand and critically reflect on the historical and present-day influences of language – particularly English – on human societies, including collective practices and meaning-making processes. The course will cover themes like: ‘Discourses and ideologies on English and globalization’, ‘Local and global languages and identities’, ‘Mediatisation including online communication in glocal contexts’, and ‘Sociolinguistic change and the role of globalisation’. 

In addition, the course introduces students to methods used for studying language and globalization, such as survey research, linguistic ethnography, focus groups, and online as well as visual methods.