Linguistic Justice Research Project and Training Integrative Course

About this course

English-based linguistic justice goes beyond the communication between native and non-native English speakers and distributes them on a spectrum of English proficiency, which can be affected by different socioeconomic factors. The unprecedented spread of English as a global language presents a situation of what van Parijs (2002, p. 59) defines as ‘asymmetric bilingualism’ or linguistic injustice.

Studying linguistic justice in relation to Englishes in the world, contributes to understanding non-native English speakers’ struggles at various levels and explores ways of empowering those who are linguistically disadvantageous or marginalised at different degrees to make the world more inclusive and diversity-tolerant.

This course critically reflects on the present and future implication of English in situations of asymmetric justice. By using a research approach, participants will be able to critically analyse conditions of injustice, causes and effects, actors involved and potential resolutions, empowering participants to take action.

Target audience

The Linguistic Justice Research Project and Training is open to all applicants wishing to build up knowledge and skills related to applied linguistics, sociolinguistics justice, equality and fairness; who are interested in Englishes as both a sociolinguistic phenomenon and a theoretical construct; who are motivated to engage with initiatives of the UN Agenda, namely on inclusivity and diversity-tolerance. UNITAR welcomes academics and professionals with different backgrounds and degrees of experience.

Learning objectives

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Obtain advanced skills in:
  • Critical reading and thinking
  • Research report writing
  • Independent study
  • Collaborative work
  • Group discussion and presentation
• Have a consolidated knowledge of linguistic justice and Englishes
• Comprehend theoretical constructs of language policy, practice and ideology
• Develop an awareness of research ethics
• Familiarise the process of a research project from literature review through research design to reporting research findings
• Gain research insights and practice research tools
• Participate in an enriching life experience by gathering research data in Nairobi, Kenya (optional)