Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - LING 190 D100

The Science of Speech (3)

Class Number: 1929

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 6, 2026: Mon, Wed, Fri, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduces the scientific study of speech, focusing on the mechanisms of speech production and perception, the ways in which speech is described and analyzed, the relationship between speech and technology, and the practical applications of phonetic science. Open to all students. Students with credit for LING 290 may not take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

An introduction to the scientific study of speech. This includes the anatomy of production and perception, as well as the theoretical frameworks that linguists and applied scientists use to describe these processes, and the extent to which these theories are compatible with folk theories of spoken language. This course focuses on applications of phonetic science in diverse fields including speech technology, the medical field, language teaching, and the arts.

COURSE DELIVERY: In-person. Students are responsible for all content discussed in lecture in oral or written form.

Grading

  • In-class check-ins 10%
  • Assignments 30%
  • Midterm 30%
  • Final Exam [during exam week] 30%

NOTES:

Note: This course can be applied toward the Certificate in the Linguistics Speech Science Program

REQUIREMENTS:

PLATFORMS USED:
We will use Canvas to turn in assignments, manage grades, and have asynchronous discussions.

TECHNOLOGY REQUIRED:
 A computer with internet access and the ability to install software.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Munro, M. J. (2021). Applying Phonetics: The Science of Speech in Everyday Life. Wiley-Blackwell.
ISBN: 978-1119164548.

Additional readings and resources will be distributed on Canvas.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Students should familiarize themselves with the Department's Standards on Class Management and Student Responsibilities.

Please note that a grade of “FD” (Failed-Dishonesty) may be assigned as a penalty for academic dishonesty.

All student requests for accommodations for their religious practices must be made in writing by the end of the first week of classes or no later than one week after a student adds a course.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.