Including underrepresented language learners in SLA research: A case study and considerations for internet-based methods

Abstract

This article contributes to recent discussions on internet-based methods as a way to include more diverse samples in research (Casler et al., 2013; Newman et al., 2021). Discussion specifically focuses on designing psycholinguistic research that maximises accessibility and minimises harm for adults learning languages across writing systems in fragile contexts (Fox et al., 2020). Recommendations are offered based on a case study of the author's experiences conducting internet-based research with Arabic-speaking learners of English, some of whom were navigating combinations of displacement, limited host language proficiency and/or limited formal schooling. This leads to the exploration of vulnerability as layers rather than labels (Luna, 2019) as a more instructive route towards ethical and accessible research design. Both practical and ethical considerations are outlined, as well as the value of in-person research when seeking to include adult language learners with diverse migration and educational backgrounds in linguistic research.