This paper argues that the vertical spread of computer-assisted language learning (CALL), i.e., a spread throughout language materials and curricula, makes it difficult to draw a clear distinction between CALL and other language materials. In view of the emphasis that teachers, researchers, and administrators have placed on evaluating CALL, I…

This article presents an interview with Professor Gui Shichun, a well-known figure in the academic field in China. Professor Shichun is credited with being the first scholar who introduced applied linguistics studies into China. He has established several other records of "the first in China," hence has long been called "the brave…

In the past decade, language memoirs, linguistic autobiographies, and learners' journals and diaries have become a popular means of data collection in applied linguistics. It is not always clear however how one should go about analyzing these data. The aim of this paper is to offer a critical review of analytical frameworks applied to second…

An interview with the founder of the Second Language Research Forum covers personal experiences, a researcher's view of applied linguistics, and educating future researchers. (LB)

Steven Ross's (2005) recent paper empirically measuring the efficacy of formative assessment compared to the summative variety found that the former produced positive effects on some aspects of language learning. In this critique, it is contended that Ross's study is flawed because his two groups of learners, one receiving summative assessment and…

Considers the ways in which work is changing in two very different sites; a gaming machine factory and a metropolitan teaching hospital. Explores the implications of these changes for research and discourse analysis. (Author/VWL)

Ostensive and expository definitions of applied linguistics are assessed. It is suggested that the key to a meaningful definition lies in the dual articulation of applied linguistics: it is an interface between linguistics and practicality. Its role as an "expert system" is suggested. (45 references) (Author/LB)

Focuses on the patriarchal aspect of Welles'"Othello" and the pedagogical uses of adapted films. Focuses on differences between the narratives of Othello and those of Desdemona. Studies pedagogical uses and effects of adapted films and discusses "Shakespeare in Love" as an effective tool for instruction. (Author/VWL)

Looks at educational research from a macro perspective, advocating semiotics as the foundation for qualitative research in education. Presents myths and disputations and an open-ended conclusion via the kaleidoscopic interpretations of Jack London, Phil Dick, Jack Kerouac, the Grateful Dead, and an assortment of street characters. (Author/VWL)

Submits references from a journal kept to accompany a new research project. Sheds light on the delicate relationship between life story and narrative reference. (Author/VWL)

Language is crucial in our lives and to all disciplines. It affects our well-being individually and collectively and touches important sociopolitical issues. Linguists/applied linguists have exciting opportunities for interdisciplinary research and to work in contexts personally meaningful to them. While language is the concern of all people,…

Focuses on how the use of references and quotations has become more problematic. Uses the case of two French philosophers--Derrida and Foucault--to discuss this issue. (Author/VWL)

Dr. Charles W. Stansfield is widely recognized as one of the most important figures in contemporary language testing. He is respected and relied upon by leading language professionals in education, government agencies, academia, and the private sector. During his 40 years of working with languages, he has been a secondary school teacher of…

An operational definition of "verbal aspect" is offered and related to the foreground-background theory. Basic ideas leading to a method of teaching aspectual distinctions in English are outlined. (approximately 65 references) (LB)

Reviews recent applied linguistic research on science and language, especially studies conducted during the period between 1990 and 1998. Outlines major changes that have taken place in this area since van Naerssen and Kaplan's 1987 review. (Author/VWL)