Including detailed discussions of both the current state and future directions of the field, this comprehensive textbook presents a complete overview of multilingualism.
Written by internationally recognized researchers and educators, Understanding Multilingualism: An Introduction provides detailed coverage of the various dimensions of modern multilingualism. It highlights the interdisciplinary nature of the field by exploring the broad spectrum of different sociolinguistic, psycholinguistic, and neurocognitive approaches to the study of multilingualism.
The text begins by defining and clarifying the scope of multilingualism studies as a distinctive, interdisciplinary field of inquiry. Subsequent chapters discuss the historical development and theoretical models of multilingualism, how the brain processes multiple languages, the effect of multilingualism on human cognition, how multilingual processing changes over the human lifespan, societal management of multilingualism, multilingual education, and impact of technological advancement on multilingualism. The book concludes by addressing the prospect of a post-multilingual world and methodological issues in studying multilingualism.
- Considers the cognitive and linguistic implications of multilingualism to applied linguistics and language acquisition
- Examines the connections between multilingualism and changing socio-political and economic landscapes
- Reviews modern theories, methods, and research findings in multilingualism studies
- Discusses complex topics at both the individual and societal level
- Features numerous exercises, discussion questions, assignments, further readings, suggested research topics, and real-life case studies
Understanding Multilingualism: An Introduction is the perfect primary textbook for undergraduate courses in multilingualism and bilingualism, and an excellent resource for advanced students in applied linguistics, sociolinguistics, psycholinguistics, second language acquisition, and foreign language education programs.
"...an impressive volume...and a very welcome resource for teachers, researchers, policymakers, and the wider community."
-JOSEPH LO BIANCO, Professor Emeritus of Language and Literacy, University of Melbourne, Australia
"...a crucial resource for researchers investigating the impact of multiple languages on individuals and societies. The breadth of topics covered is remarkable...and the detailed discussion of diverse methodologies in multilingual studies is especially valuable, offering readers insights into the intricate research processes underlying the field's advancements."
-MARIA POLINSKY, Professor of Linguistics, University of Maryland, College Park, USA
"...a comprehensive yet highly accessible introduction to an increasingly complex phenomenon in our contemporary world...the carefully crafted template for the chapters ensures the reader's attention is captivated and stimulated. The volume is a must read for understanding multilingualism in the 21st century."
-ELIZABETH LANZA, Professor Emerita of Linguistics, University of Oslo, Norway
Understanding Multilingualism is a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the methodological, cognitive, neurological, and sociological aspects of multilingualism. Broad in scope, this valuable textbook addresses an array of topics in language acquisition studies, including the cognitive and linguistic implications of multilingualism, the relationship between multilingualism and changing socio-political conditions, the impact of social media and new technologies, and how theoretical models can explain the processes involved in multilingualism.
Full of discussion questions, case studies, exercises, and suggested readings to support student comprehension, and engagement, Understanding Multilingualism is an excellent primary textbook for multilingualism and bilingualism courses and a valuable supplement for students in various disciplines including applied linguistics, sociolinguistics, psycholinguistics, second language acquisition, and foreign language education.
