Advanced syntax: theory and research (Master S3 Class)

Basic information

• Credits: 3
• Format: 2.5 hours weekly
• 2026-2027 instructors: Caterina Donati
• 2026-2027 schedule: Mondays, 16:00-18:30, room 147
• Moodle page

Description

The aim of this class is to lead and supervise students into conducting their own research in theoretical syntax. Joint and collaborative work will be encouraged. The course, which will take the form of a shared seminar, will follow the basic steps of a research, from the definition of the domain and the hypothesis, the assessment of the existing literature, the operationalization into a research question and a research methodology, and into a full-fledged research. After a methodological premise conducted by the teacher, the course will be articulated through student presentations of the various steps: 1) literature review; 2) hypothesis and research questions; 3) methodology; 4) data and (preliminary) results; 5) discussion and conclusions.

Prerequisites

The course is conceived as a natural prosecution of Syntax and Topics in Minimalist Syntax, and it is mainly addressed to students specialising in syntax as an introduction to their Master thesis.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this course, students should be able to proceed in the second semester with the writing and completion of their Master thesis.