Language studies working to solve real-world problems
Applied linguistics is a diverse field that involves developing effective approaches to learning languages, studying how language works in professional and social settings, and addressing the social impact of linguistic diversity.
About us
In a department that is ranked 27th in the world and 2nd in Australia, applied linguistics is a prominent interdisciplinary field. It is an exciting field that uses the study of language to identify and address real-life problems.
Some applied linguists are interested in developing more effective approaches to help people teach, learn and use second and foreign languages. Other applied linguists study how communication works in professional and social settings, in order to understand what makes communication work well and why it sometimes breaks down.
Applied linguistics also takes in the study of multilingualism and linguistic diversity, and how contact between different languages and cultures creates both barriers and opportunities for individuals and societies.
Areas of interest
We are interested in the following areas of research:
Our research stems from and builds on a long tradition of engagement with the migrant English language teaching sector and extends into the international English language teaching sector.
Informing our internationally recognised courses in Applied Linguistics and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), our research in this area focuses on the ways in which practising language teachers keep abreast of the rapidly evolving field of language learning and teaching.
Research in this field focuses on enhancing teaching practices and fostering continuous growth. Our work emphasises the value of teacher autonomy and sociocultural approaches to learning, which help TESOL educators adapt to diverse classroom environments and evolving educational demands.Add content here
Our research is focused on the importance of oracy and how learning can be optimised through dialogic teaching. We place emphasis on the on the scholarship of teaching and learning, and action research, which we then implement in our own pedagogies and TESOL teacher training course.
This area of research explores the ways that individual differences shape second and foreign language learning, emphasising the roles of motivation, learning strategies, identity, and digital technology.
We investigate how learners' motivations and identities shape their language acquisition processes, noting that these factors are dynamic and evolve over time.
We also explore various learning strategies that can enhance language proficiency, particularly in technology-enhanced environments, where the use of digital tools creates personalised and flexible learning experiences that cater to individual needs and preferences.
Applied linguistics researchers at Macquarie conduct research that focuses on linguistic inclusivity in curriculum design and assessment practices. We are also interested in exploring the experiences of students from linguistically diverse backgrounds – including international students and migrants – in Australia.
Our research in this sphere extends across areas such as academic literacy, English for Academic Purposes, and research writing. The overarching goal is to understand how both students and teachers can best be supported to optimise learning outcomes in adult education contexts.
Our research explores the complexities of linguistic diversity and social participation. These lines of research help us to understand how language barriers can exclude individuals from equitable access to education, employment, healthcare, legal processes and social services.
Importantly, however, this research also identifies opportunities for positive change, emphasising the value of multilingualism and inclusive language practices. It advocates for policies that enhance social inclusion and participation.
Our research on health communication focuses on improving interactions between healthcare providers and patients. This research addresses critical issues such as the clarity of medical information, patient understanding, and the impact of communication on health outcomes.
By examining both verbal and non-verbal communication strategies, we aim to enhance the effectiveness of health communication, particularly in multilingual and multicultural contexts.
Our work contributes to developing training programs for healthcare professionals to better navigate complex communication scenarios, ultimately leading to improved patient care and satisfaction.
Our people
Meet some of the academics involved in this research: