An Introduction to Applied Linguistics: From Practice to Theory (Edinburgh Textbooks in Applied Linguistics) - Softcover

Davies, Alan

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0748633553 ISBN 13: 9780748633555

Publisher: Edinburgh University Press, 2007

Synopsis

This second edition of the foundational textbook An Introduction to Applied Linguistics provides a state-of-the-art account of contemporary applied linguistics. The kinds of language problems of interest to applied linguists are discussed and a distinction drawn between the different research approach taken by theoretical linguists and by applied linguists to what seem to be the same problems. Professor Davies describes a variety of projects which illustrate the interests of the field and highlight the marriage it offers between practical experience and theoretical understanding. The increasing emphasis of applied linguistics on ethicality is linked to the growth of professionalism and to the concern for accountability, manifested in the widening emphasis on critical stances. This, Davies argues, is at its most acute in the tension between giving advice as the outcome of research and taking political action in order to change a situation which, it is claimed, needs ameliorisation. This dilemma is not confined to applied linguistics and may now be endemic in the applied disciplines.

About this title

About the Author

Alan Davies is Emeritus Professor at the University of Edinburgh.

Review

Davies, with his impressive experience and knowledge has packaged this comprehensive coverage of the field in an original and yet accessible way. The book is a pleasure to read for its style, its theory and its weaving in of experience... As with the main text, the supporting features are meticulously presented. This handbook, by a tireless scholar, is recommended for professional and personal libraries. -- Marilyn Lewis, Tthe University of Auckland New Zealand Studies in Applied Linguistics Davies, with his impressive experience and knowledge has packaged this comprehensive coverage of the field in an original and yet accessible way. The book is a pleasure to read for its style, its theory and its weaving in of experience... As with the main text, the supporting features are meticulously presented. This handbook, by a tireless scholar, is recommended for professional and personal libraries.

Edition details

• Publisher: Edinburgh University Press
• Publication date: 2007
• ISBN 10: 0748633553
• ISBN 13: 9780748633555
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 224