Reading Prompt #9

 BLACKBOARD - Barbierie, F. (2005). What is Corpus Linguistics?
Essential Teacher (Compleat Links).
 BLACKBOARD - Conrad, S. (2000). Will Corpus Linguistics
Revolutionize Grammar Teaching in the 21st Century? TESOL Quarterly, 34(3), 548-560.

What is Corpus Linguistics? And why are some language teachers so excited about it? What applications can you envision for your current or future classroom?

The study of language through the use of computer assisted techniques defines Corpus linguistics. It analyzes large databases of naturally occurring language. The purpose of corpus linguistics studies is to find the numerous uses of certain words across different registers. As we all know the meaning of a word is determined by the context where the word is being used. Both articles provide definite examples of word use in diverse circumstances.
Though the article does not mention the feelings of instructors or teachers about corpus, the latter has a tremendous potential to provide effective instruction for language learners. The potential of Corpus linguistics is that it will simplify language teaching and its use. Imagine having to learn language that it is specific to a certain environment only, for language learners. Basing all instruction on the results of corpus can be problematic but if corpus is incorporated with other teaching strategies can become a great teaching strategy.