Micro language planning for multilingual education: agency in local contexts

Abstract

This paper overviews some of the domains of application of micro-level language planning approaches to foster multilingual education. It examines the language planning of local agents and the contexts in which their work contributes to multilingual education, either to expand or limit educational possibilities. It identifies four broad contexts of language planning activity in which local agents work: the local implementation of macro-level policy, contestation of macro-level policy, addressing local needs in the absence of macro-level policy and opening new possibilities for developing multilingualism. These contexts provide a way of framing the contribution that micro language planning work and local agents can make to multilingual education.

Keywords:

• micro language planning
• multilingual education
• agency

Notes on contributors

Anthony J. Liddicoat is Professor in Applied Linguistics at the Research Centre for Languages and Cultures in the School of Communication, International Studies and Languages at the University of South Australia. His research interests include language and intercultural issues in education, conversation analysis, and language policy and planning.

Kerry Taylor-Leech is an Applied Linguist in the School of Education and Professional Studies at Griffith University, Queensland. Her research focuses mainly on language-in-education policy and planning in multilingual settings and the relationship between language, policy and identity, particularly in the context of migration and settlement.