| FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What are the entry requirements?
A: There are none as such. However, in order to fully benefit from the course, participants with no background in linguistics should familiarize themselves with an introductory text such as Aitchison's "Linguistics", Fromkin, Rodman and Hyams' "An Introduction to Language", or Parker and Riley's "Linguistics for Non-Linguists".

Q: What kind of people come to the school?
A: Anyone with an interest in forensic linguistics! Among the participants in previous years were a civil servant, a translator, a published author as well as police officers and undergraduate and postgraduate students of linguistics and other disciplines. They came from all corners of the world; some travelled from as far off as Trinidad & Tobago and Japan.

Q: Can I take away credits to use towards my degree at my home institution?
A: Yes. The School is recognised by Aston University as a credit-bearing course. It is worth 20 credits, which can then be converted using the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System. If you choose the creadit-bearing option, you will need to submit a take-home assignment.

Q: Is it possible to attend individual days?
A: Yes. You can pay for and attend individual days, i.e. four 1.5-hour sessions.

Q: Do I need to bring a laptop?
A: No. All computer equipment as well as internet access will be provided by the organisers. If you do bring a laptop, you will be able to use our Wi-Fi network.

Q: Will I be able to use your library?
A: Yes. Our participants have access to both the Centre for Forensic Linguistics and Aston University libraries.

Q: What is the cost of participation?
A: The early-bird rate is GBP560. After 30 April we will be charging the standard rate of GBP625. The fee for full-time students and former participants is GBP500. Please note that it is also possible to attend individual days. For details of the cost, please see the registration form.

Q: Why has the participation fee gone up?
A: Responding to demand, we have extended the duration of the Summer School. From 2010 it is held over six days and this is reflected in the new fee structure.

Q: Are there awards/bursaries/etc. to participate in the School?
A: Unfortunately, the only concession we can offer at the moment is a discount for full-time students and former participants.

Q: How do I pay?
A: Please pay by credit card, cheque or bank transfer. For details please see the registration form. Please do not send cash.

Q: How do I register?
A: The registration form is available from here. Fill it in and email or post to the address provided.

Q: I am not sure I will be able to participate but would like to be kept informed on relevant developments. Can you keep me posted?
A: Yes. Simply let us know here and we will add your address to our mailing list.

Q: What about accommodation?
A: We suggest that you make your own arrangements. Birmingham offers accommodation ranging from family-run bed-and-breakfasts to five-star chain hotels. Prices start from around GBP40 per room per night. Aston University's campus is located in the city centre, which means that a great many hotels are within walking distance.