Multilingual Perspectives on Translanguaging

Deconstructivism, which claims that discrete languages do not exist, is critically examined in this book by a diverse group of scholars from various disciplines. They investigate topics such as epistemology, language ideology, bilingual linguistic competence, codeswitching, bilingual first language acquisition, neurolinguistics of bilingualism, the importance of language naming to Indigenous language reclamation efforts, implications for bilingual education and language rights, and the effects of translanguaging on immersion programs for endangered languages. The book supports a multilingual perspective on translanguaging that affirms the pedagogical and conceptual aims of translanguaging while rejecting deconstructivism. It is a valuable contribution to the development of translanguaging theory and will be of interest to scholars and students in applied linguistics.

Format: Hardback
Length: 392 pages
Publication date: 13 July 2022
Publisher: Multilingual Matters

This comprehensive book brings together a diverse and esteemed group of scholars from various disciplines to critically examine a recent proposal within translanguaging theory known as deconstructivism. The central argument of deconstructivism is that discrete or "named" languages do not exist, challenging the traditional notion of linguistic diversity. Contributors delve into various important topics related to the deconstructivist turn, including epistemology, language ideology, bilingual linguistic competence, codeswitching, bilingual first language acquisition, neurolinguistics of bilingualism, the significance of language naming to Indigenous language reclamation efforts, implications for bilingual education and language rights, and the effects of translanguaging on immersion programs for endangered languages.

While some contributors offer support for deconstructivism, the majority converge on a multilingual perspective on translanguaging. This perspective affirms the pedagogical and conceptual aims of translanguaging while rejecting the notion of deconstructivism. The book makes a significant contribution to the development of translanguaging theory and is essential reading for scholars and students interested in one of the most dynamic and influential debates in contemporary applied linguistics.

Epistemology: Deconstructivism challenges the traditional view that there is a universal and objective knowledge of language. Contributors explore the implications of this perspective for language learning and teaching, questioning the validity of standardized tests and the dominance of English as a global language.

Language Ideology: Deconstructivism intersects with language ideology, which examines the social and political factors that shape language use and language policies. Contributors discuss how deconstructivism can contribute to the rethinking of language ideologies and the promotion of linguistic diversity.

Bilingual Linguistic Competence: Deconstructivism raises questions about the nature and development of bilingualism. Contributors explore the cognitive and linguistic processes involved in bilingualism, including codeswitching, bilingual memory, and language acquisition.

Codeswitching: Deconstructivism examines the role of codeswitching in bilingual communication and the implications of this phenomenon for language learning and identity. Contributors discuss the social and cultural factors that influence codeswitching and the ways in which it can be used to promote language diversity.

Bilingual First Language Acquisition: Deconstructivism challenges the traditional view that children acquire their first language in a linear and unidirectional process. Contributors explore the complex and multifaceted nature of bilingual first language acquisition, including the role of socialization and the influence of multiple languages on cognitive development.

Neurolinguistics of Bilingualism: Deconstructivism brings attention to the neurolinguistic aspects of bilingualism, exploring how the brain processes language in bilingual individuals. Contributors discuss the benefits and challenges of bilingualism from a neurolinguistic perspective and the implications for bilingual education and language therapy.

Significance of Language Naming to Indigenous Language Reclamation Efforts: Deconstructivism has implications for Indigenous language reclamation efforts, as language naming plays a crucial role in preserving and revitalizing Indigenous languages. Contributors discuss the challenges faced by Indigenous communities in maintaining their languages and the ways in which deconstructivism can contribute to their language revitalization efforts.

Implications for Bilingual Education and Language Rights: Deconstructivism raises questions about the role of bilingual education in promoting language diversity and bilingualism. Contributors discuss the benefits and challenges of bilingual education and the ways in which it can be used to support language rights and social justice.

Effects of Translanguaging on Immersion Programs for Endangered Languages: Deconstructivism has implications for immersion programs for endangered languages, as these programs often rely on the notion of discrete and named languages. Contributors discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by translanguaging in immersion programs and the ways in which it can be used to promote language preservation and revitalization.

In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive and critical examination of deconstructivism within translanguaging theory. While some contributors offer support for deconstructivism, the majority converge on a multilingual perspective on translanguaging. The book makes a valuable contribution to the development of translanguaging theory and is essential reading for scholars and students interested in one of the most dynamic and influential debates in contemporary applied linguistics.

Weight: 728g
Dimension: 164 x 240 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800415683