Undergraduate Field Methods

This course provides an introduction to linguistic fieldwork with hands-on experience through the study of Sindhi, an under-studied Indo-Aryan language spoken in Pakistan and India. Using methods such as structured elicitations, text collection, and data presentation, we’ll explore its grammar—phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics. By working with a consultant, we’ll gather data, apply linguistic theories, and test hypotheses, sharpening our skills while highlighting the importance of language documentation for research and cultural preservation. This course also satisfies the non-Indo-European language requirement for linguistics majors.