Course overview
This course explores the concept of communicative expertise with a particular focus on critical moments which may involve physical, interpersonal or professional risk. Drawing on theory and methods from applied linguistics, learners explore the expert use of language in situations that can significantly impact the life chances of individuals, communities and organisations. Such situations include advocacy, care, conflict resolution, emergency response and de-escalation, in contexts such as health, education, legal and justice settings, crisis management, and organisational decision-making. Emphasis is placed on the ethical dimensions and the profound impact of communicative expertise in life-changing situations.
Course learning outcomes
- Identify and track the expert use of language in authentic interactions
- Analyse how participants navigate physical, interpersonal or professional risk at critical moments
- Explain an instance of communicative expertise from the perspectives of professional practice, organisational context, and individual participants
- Articulate and evaluate the practical relevance of findings and recommendations