This course focuses on the methods used in the study of language variation and change. The methods of Labovian sociolinguistics, which form the backbone of most variationist approaches, will be discussed in some detail during the course. During the course we will examine in detail the methods used in sociolinguistic, dialectological and historical studies, some of them classics in the field, some representing recent trends in variationist linguistics. The course also includes a discussion of the statistical methods used in variationist linguistics.

A reading list will be provided at the beginning of the course.

Assessment is based on class participation, an oral presentation in the class, and a final essay.