Language and Interaction (Q1900)

30 credits, Level 4

Autumn teaching

A conversation appears to be one of the simplest forms of interaction we have. But, it is deceptively complex, which is why it poses such a challenge for AI and other forms of machine generation.

Successful, unmarked and ‘normal’ conversation follows a set of complex expectations. From how long we pause before someone assumes we’ve stopped interacting, to how we subtly – but reliably – communicate evaluations of each other and our intentions (such as sarcasm).

On this module, you’ll learn how to identify and analyse these governing rules. You’ll use key concepts from pragmatics and conversation analysis. You’ll use this knowledge to investigate the ways conversational practices vary across different types of interaction, such as:

• human-human interactions and human-machine interactions
• spoken and written conversations
• interactions between people who know each other well and a first meeting.

You’ll also examine what happens when interactions break down and clinical applications of this knowledge.

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 300 hours of work. This breaks down into about 55 hours of contact time and about 245 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2026/27. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.

Courses

This module is offered on the following courses:

• English Language and Linguistics (with TESOL) BA
• English Language and Linguistics BA
• English Language and Literature BA