Needs analysis of Danish Language competencies among international researchers at the University of Copenhagen: Parallel language use in theory and practice

Project description

This research project is concerned with the language behaviour of the international academic staff in their scientific work and the social settings at Copenhagen University. The data is looked upon in the light of Copenhagen University's language policy, based on the principle of parallel use of Danish and English. The aim of the project is to look at how parallel language use function in practice, what are the specific needs for Danish language skills in the university context and outside among researchers with other first language than Danish, and what direct and/or indirect linguistic or thereof derived requirements does the university's language policy set for international researchers.

The results of this project are expected to form the basis for recommendations on how these needs could best be met, e.g. in the form of tailor-made, research based Danish courses for this particular target group. Furthermore, the project aims to contribute to the discussion of meaning, development and application of the concept of 'parallel language use'.

Project participants

The project is carried out by Merike Jürna, PhD-scholar at CIP/INSS

Funding

The project is co-funded by the Danish Agency for Science, Technology and Innovation, Faculty of Humanities at the University of Copenhagen and CIP.

Project period

February 2010 - March 2013