- Students completed a module called Practical Applications of Forensic Linguistics
- It was part of the Forensic Linguistics MA degree at Aston University
- The project focused on the online discourse around a campaign to encourage fans to support the development of women’s football.
Aston University students have worked with Aston Villa Football Club to conduct a linguistic analysis of tweets as part of their Practical Applications of Forensic Linguistics module.
The project focused on the discourse around the #Betheinspiration campaign, which aims to encourage fans to support the development of women’s football and inspire them to interact with the women’s game, removing barriers and inspiring the next generation.
Through their analysis, students identified various different patterns of language in discussion of the women’s game on social media.
They were also able to recommend a series of actions for Aston Villa to positively influence the discourse and interaction with Aston Villa Women, advising about so-called ‘benevolent misogyny’ and the importance of engaging with fans via social media.
Dr Nicci MacLeod, programme director of MA in Forensic Linguistics, said:
“This project exemplifies the power of forensic linguistics to uncover hidden patterns and meanings in everyday language use.
The linguistic analysis of tweets around the #Betheinspiration campaign provides valuable insights into how gendered language can shape perceptions of women’s football, and how social media can be harnessed to promote positive change.
“We are proud to have partnered with Aston Villa Football Club on this project, and to have contributed to the ongoing conversation around the development of women’s sport.”
Mark Smith, executive director of business and regional engagement at Aston University, said:
“This project is an excellent example of the practical applications of Aston University research and the benefit to businesses of knowledge exchange. It further strengthens our partnership with Aston Villa.
“By analysing online discourse, our students were able to provide valuable insights that can be used to influence the growing conversation around women’s football positively.”
For more information on the Forensic Linguistics MA degree at Aston University, click here.
- Notes to Editors
About Aston University
Founded in 1895 and a university since 1966, Aston is a long established university led by its three main beneficiary groups – students, business and the professions, and the West Midlands region and wider society. Located in Birmingham at the heart of a vibrant city, the campus houses all the University’s academic, social and accommodation facilities for our students. Professor Aleks Subic is the Vice-Chancellor & Chief Executive.
Aston University is ranked 22nd in the UK in the Guardian University Guide, based on measures including entry standards, student satisfaction, research quality and graduate prospects. The Aston Business School MBA programme was ranked in the top 100 in the world in the Economist MBA 2021 ranking.
For media inquiries in relation to this release, contact Sam Cook, Press and Communications Manager, on (+44)7446 910063 or email: s.cook2@aston.ac.uk
