The Role of Research in Applied Linguistics

Introduction

Applied linguistics represents an amalgamation of concepts and theories from diverse fields like anthropology, linguistics, sociology and psychology to address real-life problems. Applied linguistics focuses on the gap between theoretical linguistic insights and language application in various contexts especially concerning language policies, language testing and assessment, and the translation of languages (Cook, 2003). As Davis (2016) notes, applied linguistics encompasses several major areas which include methods of teaching languages, evaluation of languages, corpus linguistics, and discourse analysis. Linguists seek to know how people acquire language in their communities. Additionally, they want to comprehend how language relates to the culture of a society (Norton, 2013).

Generally, applied linguistics is concerned with everyday issues or matters that are practical in nature. Scholars who belong to this discipline aim to improve teaching practices and address various challenges faced while learning languages (Spolsky, 2012). For example, first, scholars investigate various methods employed by teachers to instruct specific language aspects. They do this by studying the effects of multilingualism laws on English teaching. Second, they create ways to assess the effectiveness of these methods (Bachman & Palmer, 2010).

Research conducted within the framework of applied linguistics has contributed significantly to determining effective strategies for second language acquisition. Researchers have claimed that legislative decisions about language learning should be based on empirical evidence and studies that use dynamic research instruments. (Ellis, 2018). While applied linguistics contributes positively to the understanding and teaching of languages, it also comes with its share of controversies, such as debates over teaching methodologies, the role of native languages in education, and the implementation of language policies. These controversies often stem from differing perspectives on language acquisition and the best ways to promote multilingualism. Despite these challenges, the field continues to evolve and adapt, striving to improve language learning and teaching worldwide. Some emerging controversies regarding applied linguistics concern the validity of particular methodologies employed when doing research, the transferability of findings, and the ethics of applied linguistics (Shohamy & Or, 2013). The field has also ongoing debates on the role of technological change within language learning, on how far language is used by different people with its universality, as well on the relationship between identity and language. Accordingly, this field has evolved and continues to adapt in response to societal shifts and emerging trends. Scholars in this sophisticated subject try to address problems relating to languages and further deepen their conceptualization of language using theoretical frameworks and practical tools.

Applied linguistics research is important as it provides ways of understanding and addressing language obstacles that occur in real situations (Becker, 2023). Applied linguistics also has connections with various fields such as psychology, language teaching, and education which help to solve the problem of language barriers (Kramsch, 2017). Furthermore, applied linguistics needs significant research because it leads to policy-making, and comprehension of how language functions and is acquired. Furthermore, it is through studies in applied linguistics that great instructional strategies are found and that customized approaches can be made for different learners’ needs (Ellis, 2021). Empirical and theoretical evaluation include discussions like the difference between task-based instruction and traditional grammar-centered mechanisms. Moreover, while assessing moods, planning mechanisms, and bilingual learning effects on academic success, research helps determine effective policies for languages (Garcia et al., 2016).