Applied Linguistics: Definitions, Objectives, and Key Areas
Applied Linguistics
Applied Linguistics: It is a branch of linguistics where the primary concern is the application of linguistic theories, methods, and findings to explain language problems arising in other areas of experience.
Corder (1974) defines it as the utilization of knowledge about the nature of language achieved by linguistic research for improving the efficiency of some practical task in which language is a central component.
Crystal (1985) defines it as the utilization of knowledge about the nature of language achieved by linguistic research for improving the efficiency of some practical task in which language is a central component.
Strevens (1992) defines it as a multidisciplinary approach to solving language-related problems.
Objectives of Applied Linguistics:
- The study of second language and foreign language learning and teaching.
- Investigate problems related to language learning and teaching.
- To find practical steps to solve those problems.
Key Areas in Applied Linguistics:
Bilingualism and Multilingualism
Is the use of two or more languages, either by an individual speaker or by a community of speakers.
Second Language Acquisition
Is the process by which people learn a second language.
Contrastive Linguistics
Is a practice-oriented linguistic approach that seeks to describe the differences and similarities between a pair of languages.
Conversation Analysis
Is an approach to the study of social interaction, embracing both verbal and non-verbal conduct, in situations of everyday life.
Language Pedagogy
The structural view treats language as a system of structurally related elements to code meaning (e.g., grammar). The functional view sees language as a vehicle to express or accomplish a certain function, such as requesting something. The interactive view sees language as a vehicle for the creation and maintenance of social relations, focusing on patterns of moves, acts, negotiation, and interaction found in conversational exchanges. This view has been fairly dominant since the 1980s.
Language Planning and Policies
Is a deliberate effort to influence the function, structure, or acquisition of languages or language variety within a speech community. The goals of language planning differ depending on the nation or organization but generally include making planning decisions and possibly changes for the benefit of communication. Planning or improving effective communication can also lead to other social changes such as language shift or assimilation, thereby providing another motivation to plan the structure, function, and acquisition of languages.
Literacies
Is the ability to read and write.
Lexicography
Practical lexicography is the art or craft of compiling, writing, and editing dictionaries. Theoretical lexicography is the scholarly discipline of analyzing and describing the semantic, syntagmatic, and paradigmatic relationships within the lexicon (vocabulary) of a language, developing theories of dictionary components and structures linking the data in dictionaries, the needs for information by users in specific types of situation, and how users may best access the data incorporated in printed and electronic dictionaries. This is sometimes referred to as ‘metalexicography’.