Speaking Subjects in Multilingualism Research: Biographical and Speaker-centred Approaches

This book explores multilingual encounters and the interplay between language use and social inequality, highlighting the importance of speaker-centered methodologies in multilingual research. It provides theoretical and methodological reflections and is a valuable resource for experienced researchers and students.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 31 July 2022
Publisher: Multilingual Matters

This captivating book delves into the fascinating realm of multilingual encounters, showcasing a collection of insightful contributions that explore the intricate interplay between language usage by individuals and societies, as well as the disparities or opportunities that arise for language speakers. The chapters presented herein provide compelling evidence of the significance of biographical and speaker-centered approaches in comprehending linguistic diversity. Through these approaches, researchers gain valuable insights into the lived experiences of languages, while also integrating these accounts into a broader discourse on social inequality. Collectively, the chapters establish a strong argument for the adoption of speaker-centered methodologies in multilingual and multilingualism research. This book serves as a treasure trove of theoretical and methodological insights, making it an invaluable resource for both seasoned researchers and aspiring students embarking on the exploration of biographical research methods.

Introduction:
Multilingualism is a global phenomenon that has been growing in prominence over the years. With the increasing interconnectedness of the world, people are exposed to multiple languages and cultures, leading to a rich and diverse linguistic landscape. This book aims to explore the various aspects of multilingual encounters, focusing on the interplay between language use by individuals and societies, as well as the language-related inequalities or opportunities that speakers encounter.

Chapter 1:
In the first chapter, the authors discuss the theoretical foundations of multilingualism and the importance of biographical and speaker-centered approaches in understanding linguistic diversity. They argue that biographical approaches provide a holistic understanding of language use by taking into account the individual's life experiences, social context, and cultural background. Speaker-centered methodologies, on the other hand, prioritize the voices and perspectives of language speakers, allowing for a more nuanced and empathetic understanding of their experiences.

Chapter 2:
The second chapter explores the empirical accounts of multilingualism, focusing on the experiences of language speakers in different contexts. The authors use a range of research methods, such as interviews, surveys, and ethnographic studies, to gather data and provide insights into the lived experiences of languages. They demonstrate how biographical and speaker-centered approaches can contribute to an understanding of linguistic diversity, by accounting for the individual's social and cultural background, as well as their personal and linguistic development.

Chapter 3:
In the third chapter, the authors discuss the role of language in social inequality. They argue that language can be a powerful tool for social exclusion and discrimination, particularly for marginalized communities. However, they also highlight the ways in which language can be used to promote social inclusion and empowerment, particularly through the use of bilingualism and multilingual education.

Chapter 4:
The fourth chapter explores the opportunities that multilingualism offers speakers. The authors discuss the benefits of being multilingual, such as increased job opportunities, better cognitive abilities, and a deeper understanding of different cultures. They also highlight the challenges that multilingual speakers face, such as language loss, language discrimination, and cultural assimilation.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of multilingual encounters. It demonstrates the importance of biographical and speaker-centered approaches in understanding linguistic diversity, as well as the role of language in social inequality. The chapters offer valuable insights into the lived experiences of languages, and the opportunities and challenges that speakers encounter. This book will be a valuable resource for both experienced researchers and students interested in multilingualism and multilingualism research.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 234 x 156 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800415713