The term discourse does not have just one definition and it can be used as a noun or verb. The introduction to Discourse Analysis in Classrooms offers one basic definition as the “ways, aesthetics, styles, and structures of using language and written text as a set of cultural, historical, and ideological processes” (Bloome, 3). When discourse is used as a noun it can be used four different ways, as text, language-in-use, identity, and truth, rationality, and common sense. Although it doesn’t occur often, discourse can also be a verb in “the concerted actions people take through language and related semiotic systems” (58). The book specifically deals with discourse in the classroom setting and looks at the literary experiences of students and teachers.
Based on the definition of discourse, it seems that the definition of discourse analysis is the study of these language and literary events. As a future teacher, I would use discourse and discourse analysis to get to know my students and their parents better, how the students learn, and if they are achieving the goals and objectives. This would be useful as a research method because language and literacy are both essential elements of effective communication.
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