In this spring/summer edition we have another smorgasbord of articles for you, to keep you occupied all through the holidays. With the implementation of the 1+2 approach to languages in mind, Argyro Kanaki has completed a very useful and comprehensive literature review of relevant research related to language learning in the primary school. The next two articles take a step back in time from different perspectives: James Scott’s look at Scotland’s language statistics in secondary schools from 1996-2014 provides a springboard for an in-depth examination of unintended policy consequences on language provision. By contrast, the analysis by Lynne Jones and Hannah Doughty of interviews conducted with learners from primary through to tertiary education offer a qualitative glimpse backward into the experience of language education in Scotland over the last ten-fifteen years. Finally, the last two contributions provide a very relevant look at language policy issues in other Anglophone contexts. Diane Johnson gives a well-informed insight into the issues surrounding the teaching of European languages in New Zealand whilst Adrienne Horrigan writes knowingly about the background to the new language policy in the state of Victoria, Australia, and the challenges of implementing the same.
Also in this issue:
- Abstracts and web-links to relevant recent languages-related publications
- Free-to-download articles from other language journals
- Overview of upcoming language seminars and conferences up to December 2015
Happy reading!
SLR issue 29 - download entire issue
Call for papers
We are interested in submissions that consider aspects of language learning/teaching or language policy, in Scotland or in other parts of the world. If you want your paper to be considered for the next edition, please get in touch. The SLR is read by linguists as well as educational stakeholders across the country and beyond, so your article can really make an impact!
Hannah Doughty, Editor.