Applied Linguistics PDF

The distinction between \"applied linguistics\" and \"linguistics applied\" (often abbreviated as A-L and L-A, respectively) revolves around their orientation and objectives. According to Widdowson (2000:5), "The difference between these modes of intervention is that in the case of linguistics appli...

The distinction between \"applied linguistics\" and \"linguistics applied\" (often abbreviated as A-L and L-A, respectively) revolves around their orientation and objectives. According to Widdowson (2000:5), "The difference between these modes of intervention is that in the case of linguistics applied, the assumption is that the problem can be reformulated by the direct and unilateral application of concepts and terms derived from linguistic enquiry itself. That is to say, language problems are amenable to linguistic solutions." In this context, L-A focuses on utilizing language data to explicate and test theories about language itself, emphasizing the development of linguistic knowledge. Conversely, applied linguistics involves a broader and more interdisciplinary approach. Widdowson (2000:5) notes that "intervention is crucially a matter of mediation... applied linguistics has to relate and reconcile different representations of reality, including that of linguistics without excluding others." This highlights that applied linguistics (A-L) addresses language problems not just through linguistic frameworks but also by drawing on other disciplines such as anthropology, education, and psychology. Davies and Elder (2004:11-13) elaborate on this distinction, stating that A-L \"looks outward, beyond language, in an attempt to explain social problems,\" often focusing on practical issues like aphasia or speech impediments. For example, speech therapy studies fall under A-L as they aim to find solutions to real-world language problems. In contrast, L-A \"looks inward,\" concentrating on explicating linguistic theories and using language problems as data to refine these theories. The distinction between A-L and L-A extends to their broader goals and areas of interest. Linguistics, as primarily concerned with language itself, uses language problems to improve linguistic descriptions or to inform teaching and theoretical development. On the other hand, applied linguistics investigates language problems to understand their role in people\'s daily lives and whether interventions are possible or desirable. Thus, applied linguistics is as much concerned with context as with language, often addressing issues within institutional settings such as schools, workplaces, law courts, or clinics. Despite these differences, the boundary between A-L and L-A is not always clear-cut. Widdowson (2000:5) and Davies and Elder (2004:11-13) agree that the distinction between the two is most evident at their extremes. Ultimately, the orientation of the researcher defines the approach. If the goal is to validate a linguistic theory, the research falls under L-A. If the objective is to find practical solutions to language problems, it belongs to A-L. Conclusion: the distinction between applied linguistics and linguistics applied is not easily determined by the topics of interest but rather by the orientation of the researchers and their purpose in investigating a problem. Applied linguists must have a foundational understanding of linguistic principles to carry out their work in an informed and principled manner. They should also be familiar with the broad themes and general concepts developed by linguists in their descriptive accounts of language.