Evolution of Communication (C8600)
Evolution of Communication: from animal signals to human speech
Module C8600
Module details for 2017/18.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 6
Module Outline
This module will explore the evolution of communication, progressing from the vocal signals that animals produce and the functions they serve, to then consider the differences between animal and human communication, and to evaluate theories of language evolution and discover the unique properties of human speech. In the course of this we will also examine ape language studies and gestural theories of language origins. The teaching will combine lectures with interactive research workshop sessions and practical demonstrations in order to expose students to tools and skills that would allow them to conduct research in this area themselves. It should very much appeal to both psychologists and biologists interested in how vocal signals provide the basis for animal sexual and social behaviour, the evolution of communication, the question of whether any animal can be said to have a language, and the production and perception of human speech.
Full Module Description
This module will explore the evolution of communication, progressing from the vocal signals that animals produce and the functions they serve, to then consider the differences between animal and human communication, and to evaluate theories of language evolution and discover the unique properties of human speech. In the course of this we will also examine ape language studies and gestural theories of language origins. The teaching will combine lectures with interactive research workshop sessions and practical demonstrations in order to expose students to tools and skills that would allow them to conduct research in this area themselves. It should very much appeal to both psychologists and biologists interested in how vocal signals provide the basis for animal sexual and social behaviour, the evolution of communication, the question of whether any animal can be said to have a language, and the production and perception of human speech.
Module learning outcomes
Systematically understand how vocal (or gestural) signals function in animal and human communication
Devise and sustain arguments relating to primary research on the evolution of communication
Critically evaluate core concepts and experimental designs central to advancing research on the evolution of communication
Communicate to specialist and non-specialist audience on the significance of key advances in this field
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 100.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Essay | A2 Week 2 | 80.00% |
| Presentation | T2 Week 11 | 20.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Seminar | 2 hours | 00000010101 |
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 11111111111 |
| Spring Semester | Practical | 2 hours | 00001001000 |
| Spring Semester | Film | 2 hours | 00000010000 |
| Spring Semester | Workshop | 2 hours | 00000100100 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Prof Karen Mccomb
Convenor, Assess convenor
/profiles/1752
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