Issue 1 (June)

The paper explores the multifaceted impact of language education policies on minority languages, analysing the challenges and opportunities they present. Language education policies play a crucial role in shaping the linguistic landscape of a country, and their implications for minority languages can be profound. This study delves into how these policies, often influenced by majoritarian language ideologies, can either promote or undermine the vitality and sustainability of minority languages. The analysis encompasses various dimensions, including curriculum design, pedagogical approaches, and the role of teachers, examining case studies from different regions. It highlights the complexities of maintaining linguistic diversity in the face of dominant languages and discusses strategies to ensure equitable language education. The paper argues for policies that not only recognize but also actively support the preservation and revitalization of minority languages.

This paper explores the intricate relationship between language ideologies and their profound impact on educational practices. Language ideologies refer to the set of beliefs, attitudes, and values surrounding language use in society. These ideologies shape how language is perceived, valued, and utilized in various contexts, including education. The study examines how language ideologies influence curriculum design, pedagogical approaches, and language policies in schools. It argues that the dominant language ideology in a society can either empower or marginalize certain language groups, affecting educational opportunities and outcomes. Through a critical lens, the paper analyzes case studies from diverse educational settings to illustrate the complexities of language ideologies in practice. It concludes with recommendations for fostering inclusive and equitable educational environments that recognize and respect the linguistic diversity of students.

This paper explores the multifaceted nature of language rights and policy from a global perspective. It delves into the historical, social, and political contexts that have shaped language rights as a critical aspect of human rights. The discussion encompasses the diverse approaches to language policy adopted by various nations, examining both successful and controversial initiatives. The paper argues that while language rights are enshrined in international law, their implementation varies significantly across countries, often influenced by economic, cultural, and political factors. It critically analyzes the challenges faced by marginalized language communities in preserving their linguistic identities and accessing essential services. Furthermore, the paper examines the role of technology in both facilitating and challenging language rights, highlighting the importance of inclusive and accessible digital platforms. Overall, this study underscores the need for a balanced approach to language rights and policy that respects cultural diversity while promoting social cohesion.

The title "Language Testing and Assessment: Current Trends and Future Directions" encapsulates the comprehensive nature of this paper, which aims to explore the evolving landscape of language testing and assessment. This scholarly work delves into the current trends that have shaped the field, including the shift towards computerized testing, the integration of technology in assessment practices, and the increasing emphasis on validity and reliability in test development. The paper critically evaluates the role of authentic tasks and performance-based assessments in portraying the true linguistic abilities of test-takers. Additionally, it addresses the challenges posed by the globalization of languages and the diverse needs of multilingual learners. The author further discusses the implications of these trends on language teaching and learning, highlighting the need for continuous professional development for educators. The paper concludes with a forward-looking perspective on the future directions in language testing and assessment, suggesting innovations such as adaptive testing and the use of artificial intelligence to enhance the assessment process.

This paper explores the intricate dynamics of language variation and change from a diachronic perspective. It delves into the historical development of languages, examining how linguistic features evolve over time and how this evolution shapes the diverse linguistic landscapes we observe today. The study examines various aspects of language change, including phonological shifts, morphological developments, syntactic alterations, and semantic evolution. By analyzing historical texts and linguistic corpora, the paper provides empirical evidence to support its claims. It also discusses the factors that contribute to language variation, such as social, geographical, and cultural influences. Furthermore, the paper explores the theoretical frameworks that have been proposed to explain the processes of language change, including linguistic relativity, diachronic linguistics, and sociolinguistic theories. Ultimately, the paper argues that understanding language variation and change from a diachronic viewpoint is crucial in comprehending the complexity and adaptability of human language.