Using non-manual features (NMF) to check alignment in BSL pragmatics

Abstract

This thesis explores how non-manual features (NMF) in British Sign Language (BSL) manage dialogue and ensuring comprehension. Typically, NMF are produced alongside manual signs to add intensity or meaning and these functions have been well documented by previous research (Johnston & Schembri, 2007). This study argues that additionally they also function as tools to check watcher understanding. When used in this way, this study calls them ‘aligns’ and the subsequent responses from the watcher are termed ‘align responses’ The research employs both quantitative and qualitative approaches: the quantitative analysis identifies specific NMF used to align the conversation, while the qualitative analysis provides supporting evidence and insights. Clark’s (1996) Joint Action Ladders are applied to examine whether sign language dialogues follow the same structural process as spoken language dialogues. The findings suggest that Clark’s (1996) concept of Collateral Communication can be usefully applied: Track One for conversational content and Track Two for conversation management, in this instance specifically for ensuring comprehension. Data from twelve conversational dyads were collected using Map Tasks (Brown et al., 1984), enabling natural interaction. The tables present NMF frequency, highlighting their role as aligns and the patterns of align responses. A categorised list of NMF types further explores their pragmatics function. A total of 770 aligns and aligns response instances were recorded, along with an additional 38 instances of Blinding aligns. Six distinct types of NMFs were identified as functioning as aligns: Head Nodding, Raised Eyebrows, Narrowed Eyes, Widened Eyes, Wrinkled Nose, and Furrowed Eyebrows. This study provides new insights into how NMFs facilitate dialogue management in BSL, contributing to a structural understanding of their role in communication.