Bloomsbury Academic Extending Applied Linguistics for Social Impact: Cross-Disciplinary Collaborations in Diverse Spaces of Public Inquiry

About the Author Doris S. Warriner is Professor in the Department of English at Arizona State University, USA.Elizabeth R. Miller is Professor in the Department of English at the University of North Carolina Charlotte, USA. Product Description Despite the commitment of applied linguistics research to investigate language use in real-world contexts, applied linguists have struggled to make their work accessible and relevant outside academia. Acknowledging that the field has not yet reached its full potential, this book demonstrates how applied linguists can utilize their knowledge and methods to explore contemporary social problems beyond the borders of their own discipline, to have a valuable impact on other fields, local communities and the general public. Drawing on theories, methods and methodologies in applied linguistics, chapters address pressing concerns such as equal access to education for immigrants, science education in preschool dual-language contexts, healthcare delivery to refugee families, gendered language in disability studies and social sustainability initiatives. The diversity of research contexts shows how the work of applied linguists can have tangible social impact and help to influence meaningful change. By increasing public awareness of language-related issues affecting society, this book responds to a vital gap in the field and marks and important step towards a more socially-engaged, accessible and inclusive approach to applied linguistics. Review "This highly engaging, beautifully crafted volume advances our understanding of what it means to authentically 'apply' 'applied linguistics'. Chapters highlight how (and why) applied linguistics scholars can (and should) do more to make our findings relevant, to more meaningfully partner with communities, and to more fully engage with the world around us." --Kendall A. King, Professor of Second Language Education, University of Minnesota, USA"A beautiful book. It shows us the courageous and tenacious work of linguists and language specialists reaching out to engage with others around public issues and advocacy. From addressing local health crises for immigrant communities, to reforming US census categories, to enabling multilingualism in art and theatre workshops and much more, why else do research, if not to touch lives?" --Nancy H. Hornberger, Professor Emerita, University of Pennsylvania, USA"At last! This volume offers answers for those wondering how our applied linguistics practice can address injustices, shift public policy, transform conditions for minoritized people and local communities-change the world! Offering concrete, detailed examples, these authors reveal the possibilities, beauty, and richness of public- and community-engaged work without glossing over its messiness. Rymes' Afterword dazzles." --Suhanthie Motha, Associate Professor, University of Washington, USA