Course Description

Have you ever wondered how humans evolved from simple primitive grunts to the complex languages we use today? What makes our ability to speak, sing, and gesture so uniquely powerful and generative? This course takes you on an exciting journey through the origins, science, cultures, and diversity of human communication to uncover how language shapes our world.

In the course, we will talk about how communication was like being only able to grunt and growl. We will explore the biological foundations of speech, singing, the fascinating diversity of world languages, and the hidden meanings behind gestures and facial expressions. We will discover how sign languages and mime convey rich meaning without sound, and even investigate artificial languages such as Esperanto. Along the way, we will tackle thought-provoking questions: Can machines ever truly communicate like humans? How do people speak without a voice box? What happens when communication breaks down, as in speech pathology patients?

Through interactive discussions, real-world case studies, and hands-on activities, you will gain a deeper appreciation for one of our most extraordinary abilities. Whether you are majoring in science, arts, or anything in between, as long as you speak, you should take this course and the course will change how you think about language, connection, and society.

Join us to unlock the secrets of human communication, and find your voice in the conversation.

(No prior linguistics background required. Just curiosity!)

Course Learning Outcomes

On completing the course, students will be able to:

• 1. Understand the biological, physical, and social foundations of human verbal and non-verbal communication, and the historical processes that have shaped languages over time.
  2. Note the differences among languages and language families, demonstrate an understanding of linguistic typologies and diversity.
  3. Know of basic methods for studying languages, including phonetic and acoustic analyses.
  4. Integrate insights from linguistics, anthropology, psychology, technology, philosophy, and art to develop a comprehensive understanding of human communication.
  5. Appreciate the innate ability of speaking and being able to communicate with the others.

Offer Semester and Day of Teaching

Second semester (Wed)