Class Notes on Coursework Submission and Language Discourse

Overview of Coursework Requirements

  • Submission Requirements:

    • Submit Both Pieces: Students are reminded to ensure they submit two different assignments or components as required.

  • Notes Submission:

    • Students can submit notes in either of the following formats:

    • Track Changes: If students opt to use the track changes feature, they need to ensure that all changes made are highlighted within the document.

    • Picture Insertion: An alternative method for submissions could involve inserting pictures into the document, as suggested by a classmate.

Class Engagement

  • Student Interaction: It has been noted that the instructor is uncomfortable with frequently requesting materials from students, indicating a desire for smoother interactions.

Course Content Discussion

  • Use of Visual Aids: There is a mention of using pictures during the course which indicates a visual learning component to enhance understanding.

  • Patient Interaction in Hospitals:

    • A previous example discussed relates to patient interactions in hospital settings, which is noted for its complexity.

Language and Discourse

  • Language Discourse:

    • The concept of language and behavior is introduced as a significant area of concern. This aspect has been previously discussed with colleagues.

    • Critique of Language Estimations:

    • The instructor mentions critiques about counting the number of major languages spoken, highlighting the limitations and problems with this approach.

    • The need to consider the context of language use is emphasized – recordings of speakers who have passed away lack living speakers for those languages.

  • Human Knowledge Estimations:

    • Adrian, presumably a colleague or another instructor, has brought up discussions about the estimations of human knowledge, which might include the number of major languages and their discourse complexities.

Anticipated Future Discussion

  • The instructor mentions that more details on the critiques regarding estimations of language and human knowledge will be elaborated upon after a break, indicating that the discussion is ongoing and invites further inquiries.