The Cambridge Introduction to Applied Linguistics

Written by a global team, this up-to-date introduction to applied linguistics helps students learn what it’s like to do applied linguistics, and not just read about theoretical concepts. First, it provides frameworks for understanding both the shared characteristics of work in applied linguistics and the diversity of topics and analyses. Each chapter then highlights a topic area, covering key concepts, a specific project undertaken by the authors, and their personal reflections on entering the field. Hands-on analysis and other application activities also encourage students to test different skills related to each chapter. Finally, students are introduced to the tools they need to continue in applied linguistics: how to read and write empirical research, how to evaluate primary literature, and starting points for expanding their interest in specific subject areas. The authors provide examples from different geographical regions and languages to engage an international audience. At the same time, multilingualism, interdisciplinarity, and technology are integrated as themes within the text to reflect how these areas are now interwoven throughout applied linguistics.

An up-to-date introduction integrating technology, multilingualism, and interdisciplinarity as fundamental aspects of applied linguistics
Written for an international audience with examples from different geographical regions and languages
Engaging personal stories describe how each contributor became involved in applied linguistics to help students think about their long-term careers
Examples from specific studies and projects are used to illustrate key concepts introduced for each topic, allowing students to engage more with practical research in the field
Hands-on data analysis and application activities show students how to apply concepts and theoretical knowledge to real-life situations and datasets (available online)