Introduction to Corpus Linguistics

The Department of Languages recently organized a comprehensive two-part workshop titled “Introduction to Corpus Linguistics,” held on the 12th and 20th of September 2023.This virtual event ran from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM on both days, offering accessibility to participants from both within and outside the university. The workshop featured Mr. Yassine Iabdounane, a doctoral researcher from Friedrich Alexander Universität, Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany. Known for his dedication to teaching and explaining Corpus Linguistics concepts on his YouTube channel, Mr. Yassine was an exceptional resource for all attendees, sharing his deep expertise in the field.

The initial session of the workshop served as an introduction to Corpus Linguistics. Mr. Yassine explained the foundational principles and ideas behind this linguistic approach in a manner that was both clear and easy to understand. His use of visual aids enhanced the

explanations, making complex concepts more relatable and accessible to participants. Throughout the session, he engaged the audience by answering questions and encouraging active participation, ensuring that everyone was able to follow along with the material being covered.

In the second part of the workshop, the focus shifted to a more hands-on approach, which allowed participants to actively engage with the concepts they had learned. Prior to the session, Mr. Yassine provided participants with the necessary software and a corpus to

analyze. This preparation set the stage for a practical application of Corpus Linguistics techniques. During the workshop, he shared his screen and guided participants through the analysis process step-by-step. This demonstration enabled participants to follow along closely and correct any mistakes they encountered, thus reinforcing their learning and enhancing their confidence in using these tools.

The feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive. Many attendees appreciated Mr. Yassine’s clear and methodical teaching style, noting how it made complex topics more approachable and understandable. The workshop was particularly beneficial for MA English with Digital Humanities students, who found the skills they acquired especially relevant to their research endeavors. They expressed excitement about applying these new techniques to enhance their studies and further their academic work, as the skills learned provided them with new ways to analyze and interpret linguistic data.

The workshop's success can be attributed to several key factors, including Mr. Yassine’s expertise and the interactive format of the sessions. His ability to break down complex concepts into digestible parts helped demystify Corpus Linguistics for many participants.

Additionally, the practical session allowed attendees to directly apply theoretical knowledge, reinforcing their understanding and boosting their confidence in their ability to use Corpus Linguistics tools effectively.

This event also highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in modern research. By bridging the gap between linguistics and digital humanities, the workshop demonstrated how these fields can complement each other, offering new insights and methodologies for exploring language and text. Participants left with a deeper appreciation for the potential of Corpus Linguistics in academic research and beyond, recognizing the powerful impact of integrating digital tools with traditional linguistic study.

Overall, the “Introduction to Corpus Linguistics” workshop was a valuable experience for all who attended. It not only equipped participants with new skills but also inspired them to explore the possibilities of Corpus Linguistics in their own work. The Department of Languages’ initiative in organizing such an event underscores the university’s commitment to fostering innovative and interdisciplinary learning opportunities for its community, enhancing the academic experience for all involved.