Extending Applied Linguistics for Social Impact - by Doris S Warriner & Elizabeth R Miller (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Drawing on--but also extending--the theories and methods of applied linguistics, this book demonstrates how scholars of language might work together and with non-language specialists to address pressing concerns and issues of our time. Chapters explore efforts to recognize the legitimacy of stigmatized language varieties in public and institutional domains, museum-based science education for linguistically diverse children, how corpus analysis might illuminate the tension between the language choices and commitments of certain leaders, the embodied and artistic forms of meaning-making that challenge norms of Whiteness, and the transformative power of translanguaging in community-based theater.

In addition, the volume demonstrates ways to enhance equity in healthcare delivery for immigrant families, examines the experiences of cultural health navigators working with refugee-background families, and highlights the value of raising public awareness of language issues related to social justice. These accounts show that applied linguists stand ready to interface with other scholars, other institutions, and the public to make socially-engaged and impactful contributions to the study of language, society, education, and access. Collectively, the authors respond to an important gap in the field and take a significant step towards a more socially-just, accessible, and inclusive approach to applied linguistics.

Review Quotes

"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

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.