Continuum Companion to Research Methods in Applied Linguistics

Synopsis

The essential guide to research methods for undergraduate and postgraduate students in applied linguistics and language studies.

Summary

Chapter 1: Principles of Research Design in Applied Linguistics

* Outlines the fundamental principles of research design, including hypothesis testing, theory building, and mixed methods approaches.
* Example: A study comparing the effectiveness of two different language teaching methods might use a hypothesis testing design, while a study exploring the lived experiences of language learners might use a qualitative design.

Chapter 2: Research Methods for Data Collection

* Reviews various methods for collecting data in applied linguistics research, such as surveys, interviews, observation, and discourse analysis.
* Example: A researcher investigating the sociolinguistic patterns of a particular community might use participant observation to gather data on everyday language use.

Chapter 3: Research Methods for Data Analysis

* Describes different approaches to analyzing data in applied linguistics research, including quantitative methods (e.g., statistical analysis), qualitative methods (e.g., content analysis), and mixed methods approaches.
* Example: A researcher studying the effects of language intervention on reading comprehension might use statistical analysis to compare the performance of experimental and control groups.

Chapter 4: Research Ethics in Applied Linguistics

* Discusses the ethical considerations involved in applied linguistics research, such as privacy, informed consent, and cultural sensitivity.
* Example: A researcher conducting a study involving children would need to obtain informed consent from both the children and their parents.

Chapter 5: Research Writing and Publication

* Provides guidance on writing research articles, including structure, style, and submission to academic journals.
* Example: A researcher might write an article describing a study that examines the impact of using authentic materials on language learners' comprehension.

Chapter 6: Research in Language Teaching and Learning

* Explores research methods specific to the field of language teaching and learning, such as action research, classroom observation, and learner diaries.
* Example: A teacher-researcher might use classroom observation to identify areas for improvement in their language teaching practice.

Chapter 7: Research in Second Language Acquisition

* Discusses research methods used to investigate second language acquisition, including experimental studies, longitudinal studies, and case studies.
* Example: A researcher studying the process of L2 vocabulary acquisition might conduct a longitudinal study to track the development of learners' vocabulary knowledge over time.

Chapter 8: Research in Language Assessment

* Reviews different approaches to assessing language proficiency, including standardized tests, performance-based assessments, and portfolio assessments.
* Example: A researcher might design a study to compare the validity and reliability of two different language proficiency tests.

Chapter 9: Research in Language Policy and Planning

* Explores research methods for investigating language policies and their impact on language use, language planning, and language education.
* Example: A researcher might conduct a survey to assess the attitudes of policymakers towards a particular language policy.

Chapter 10: Research in Language Documentation and Revitalization

* Discusses research methods used to document and revitalize endangered languages, including archival research, community-based research, and language teaching initiatives.
* Example: A researcher might work with a community to develop a language revitalization program aimed at preserving their ancestral language.