Research
The Department of Linguistics and English Language is an internationally renowned leading centre for empirically-based theoretical and applied research in a wide range of research areas.
Our work is organised around a number of research clusters, which are:
- Theoretical and Corpus-Based Linguistics
- Discourse Analysis, Pragmatics and Stylistics
- Language Teaching, Learning and Assessment
- Literacy Studies
- Sociolinguistics
Across all of these clusters, however, our work is characterised by three overarching themes:
Theories of language in use
We draw on current theories based on function and communication (e.g. functional linguistics and cognitive linguistics, critical social theory, expertise research, communities of practice, theories of dialect contact). We have also developed theoretical frameworks with strong links to other social sciences, working with Lancaster's Institute for Advanced Studies (IAS).
Empirical methodologies
Our pioneering role in corpus development has led to the use of corpora in all of our areas of research, e.g. in dialect studies, Critical Discourse Analysis, historical pragmatics, stylistics, and learner corpora. But we do not just use corpora - other methodologically innovative studies include typological databases, computer-based elicitation procedures, sociolinguistic surveys, ethnographies, narrative interviews and focus group studies.
Applications
We continually strive to make links with potential users of our work. We have worked with with lexicographers, policy makers and NGOs, translators, language teachers, further education institutions and health professionals, in the UK and Europe, and secondary school teachers.