Language and Cognition (372-0-1)
Instructors
Dedre Gentner
Meeting Info
Swift Hall 210: Wed 2:00PM - 4:50PM
Overview of class
Languages across the globe vary in how they classify experience. Do these variations in linguistic classification affect the way people think? The Whorfian hypothesis -that the language we speak fundamentally influences how we think--was put forth in the 1960s, and has been a controversial topic ever since. In the last few decades, there has been new evidence from cross-linguistic studies and sophisticated laboratory studies that has sharpened the discussion.
In this class we will consider the evidence both for and against the idea that language influences cognition and discuss different ways in which language interacts with cognition. We will read papers that show that different languages have different ways of talking about the word—even for basic topics such as space, time, number, and causation. This brings up several questions: Do these differences in language influence people's thinking? Does this happen even when we are not using language? Does learning language influence children's cognitive development?
Registration Requirements
Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: Students must complete Psych 205-0, as well as Psych 228 or Cog Sci 211 before taking this course.
Teaching Method
Class discussion, student presentations, and lectures
Evaluation Method
1. Two to three class presentations, each covering 2-3 papers.
2. Weekly reaction bulletin: Each week, you must turn in a brief (about one page) written reaction covering at least two readings.
3. Quiz grades: There may be occasional pop quizzes.
4. Term paper: a 12-15 page paper, 1.5 spaced.
Students will be evaluated based on (1) regular participation in class discussions; (2) weekly reaction bulletins; (3) quizzes; (4) class presentations; and (5) a term paper.
Grading;
Term paper: 40%
Presentations: 20%
Quizzes: 15%
Tickets: 15%
Class Participation: 10%
Class Materials (Required)
Text: There is no required text. All readings will be provided on Canvas.
Class Attributes
Social & Behavioral Sciences Distro Area
Attendance at 1st class mandatory
Prerequisites apply, see description
Enrollment Requirements
Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: Students must complete Psych 205-0 before taking this course.