Spanish Linguistics

The course aims to develop students' critical reasoning skills as applied to the core topics of Linguistics. Rather than presenting linguistic theories, models, and analytical frameworks as fixed bodies of knowledge unquestionable, the course encourages students to examine them critically thorugh Spanish texts, evaluating their underlying assumptions, methodological foundations, explanatory power, and limitations. Through the study of major linguistic issues—such as the nature of grammatical categories, the relationship between language and meaning, language variation and change, and the role of context in communication—students will learn to compare different theoretical perspectives, assess competing interpretations of linguistic phenomena, and formulate well-founded arguments. By fostering these skills, the course aims to provide students with the intellectual autonomy required to pursue advanced studies, engage in research activities, and undertake professional careers in the various fields related to languages and language use.

The expected learning outcomes in terms of knowledge and understanding are that students will develop a diachronic and contextualised understanding of the development of contemporary Linguistics, with explanatory references to the Spanish language. In terms of soft skills, students are expected to develop critical thinking, understood here as the ability to question established descriptions, recognise the influence of theoretical paradigms on linguistic analysis, and apply analytical tools in a reflective and informed manner. In terms of applied competences, the expected outcome is the ability to carry out in-depth textual analysis.