- The transformative potential of statistics in corpus linguistics on the latest episode of CorpusCast
- It features guest Stefan Th. Gries, professor of linguistics at the University of California, Santa Barbara
- Professor Gries shares his journey into the field, the evolving role of statistics and the future direction of corpus linguistics.
Dr Robbie Love discusses the transformative potential of statistics in corpus linguistics on the latest episode of CorpusCast.
It features guest Stefan Th. Gries, professor of linguistics at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and an advocate for rigorous statistical analysis in corpus linguistics. Professor Gries, known for challenging conventional practices and pushing for statistical sophistication in linguistic research, shares his journey into the field, the evolving role of statistics and the future direction of corpus linguistics.
Professor Gries explains how statistical modelling has transformed our understanding of language patterns by quantifying and testing hypotheses about language use, acquisition and variation. He emphasises how the discipline has moved beyond simple calculations to embrace more complex, multifactorial models that allow for nuanced analysis of language data. This shift, he argues, equips researchers to handle the inherent variability in linguistic data, improving the reliability and generalisability of corpus-based research findings.
The episode covers critical gaps and advancements in statistical methods, particularly the adoption of mixed-effects modelling, which considers individual differences among speakers and contexts. Professor Gries highlights how tools like these address the inherent “noise” in corpus data, making linguistic research more robust and insightful.
The challenges which students and researchers face when learning and applying statistics in linguistics were addressed, especially when traditional language studies have seldom involved quantitative analysis. Professor Gries shares his techniques for demystifying statistics, noting that even complex models can be made accessible through real-life, relatable examples. He advocates for critical data literacy and developing a mindset ready to adapt and refine hypotheses as a cornerstone of rigorous corpus linguistics.
Professor Stefan Th. Gries said:
“Many researchers shy away from statistics, but embracing quantitative analysis is essential to advance our understanding of language.
“Corpus linguistics has evolved significantly - moving from simple tests to multifactorial models that account for the complexity of language data. If we want to generalise our findings, we have to be rigorous in our methods.”
Dr Robbie Love, senior lecturer in English language and linguistics at Aston University, said:
“Statistics in corpus linguistics can feel like a steep learning curve, but understanding its value is crucial.
“It’s not just about numbers - it’s about what they reveal about language patterns that we couldn’t see before. Conversations with experts like Stefan Gries help demystify these methods for new students and experienced researchers alike.”
You can also listen to this episode of CourpusCast with Dr Robbie Love, and others, here.
- Notes to Editors
About Aston University
For over a century, Aston University’s enduring purpose has been to make our world a better place through education, research and innovation, by enabling our students to succeed in work and life, and by supporting our communities to thrive economically, socially and culturally.
Aston University’s history has been intertwined with the history of Birmingham, a remarkable city that once was the heartland of the Industrial Revolution and the manufacturing powerhouse of the world.
Born out of the First Industrial Revolution, Aston University has a proud and distinct heritage dating back to our formation as the School of Metallurgy in 1875, the first UK College of Technology in 1951, gaining university status by Royal Charter in 1966, and becoming The Guardian University of the Year in 2020.
Building on our outstanding past, we are now defining our place and role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (and beyond) within a rapidly changing world.
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
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