Language Ecology Research Articles

Environmental Conservation and the Bulawayo CBD as a Linguistic Landscape Construction: An Ecolinguistics Perspective

This study deploys the ecolinguistics perspective to examine how purposively selected signs communicate environmental conservation issues in the city of Bulawayo as a linguistic landscape construction. Drawing on Haugen’s language ecology model and Halliday’s eco-discursive approach, the study reveals that the dominance of English and the invisibility of indigenous languages violate an inclusive ecosophy couched on principles of diversity and harmony, interaction and coexistence. The study also reveals an ecological orientation that is both beneficial and ambivalent. We therefore recommend the inclusion of indigenous languages and the framing of more eco-beneficial messages that foreground the benefit of positive environmental stewardship.

The Linguistic Ecologic Analysis of the Error-prone Emergency Prevention and Control Slogans during the COVID-19 Epidemic in China

As a typical form of emergency language service, the emergency prevention and control slogans (EPCS) play an important role in the prevention and control of social emergencies in China. However, due to the characteristics of "emergency", the prevention and control slogans are errorprone, which can cause a negative impact on the language ecology. Based on the theory of linguistic ecology, this paper conducts a thorough analysis of the error-prone slogans during the COVID-19 epidemic in China. First, error-prone slogans can be divided into four categories from the internal language ecological environment: language standardization errors, application appropriateness errors, content adaptability errors, and ethical compliance errors. Second, this paper assesses three aspects of error-prone slogans from external social ecological environment: the degree of errors, the distribution of errors, and the citizens' normative willingness. Finally, the paper puts forward suggestions to prevent language conflict, stop language exclusion, eliminate language dissent and govern the language environment in order to reduce error-prone emergency prevention and control slogans, improve the quality of emergency language services, and build a harmonious ecological environment inside and outside the language.

On the demarcation of ecolinguistics

Abstract This article discusses the demarcation of contemporary ecolinguistics. It takes a starting point in different conceptualisations of the field, including (1) the claim that ecolinguistics is an umbrella term for work that attends to interconnections and dynamics in multiple contexts, (2) the claim that ecolinguistics comprises two traditions, a Haugenian tradition and a Hallidayan tradition, and (3) the claim that ecolinguistics consists of four strands that orient to the symbolic, sociocultural, natural, and cognitive ecology of language, respectively. Using bibliometric methods, the article concludes that there is currently no unity in ecolinguistics that warrants the first claim. Further, it concludes that there is no bibliometric or empirical evidence for the second claim, as there is virtually no connection between the two traditions, and hence they are two separate research areas, rather than two traditions within one field. Finally, it is shown that while there do indeed exist four ecological frameworks in linguistics, they are not subfields within ecolinguistics. It is concluded that contemporary ecolinguistics is defined by its preoccupation with natural ecologies. Based on this conclusion, it is suggested that the ecolinguistic preoccupation with natural ecologies presupposes treating language as integral to living and the ecology.

International Students’ Investment in Learning Cantonese, English, Mandarin, and Portuguese in Multilingual Macao

ABSTRACT Extant literature describes challenges faced by international students, including language deficiency, culture shock, and identity crises. However, few studies have investigated international students’ second language (L2) learning in non-Anglophone higher education institutions using English as the medium of instruction (EMI), where English is used inside the classroom, and other language(s) are used outside. In a multilingual world, how international students’ L2 learning is shaped by their identities and social contexts, as multiple languages interact, is worth investigation. This study reports the L2 learning experiences of international students in Macao. Using semi-structured interviews, the researchers examined 15 participants’ routes for and negotiation of L2 learning investment in Cantonese, English, Mandarin, and Portuguese. Three main findings emerged: (a) participants’ main L2 learning routes were language courses and daily communication, with more investment in English and Mandarin than in Cantonese and Portuguese; (b) participants were discouraged from investing in L2s other than English, as they used English in Macao, identifying as “foreigners” and “deficient speakers” of other languages; (c) languages competed for participants’ limited resources, with English and Mandarin prevailing as more beneficial for their futures. This paper provides a unique perspective on the global language ecology through international student sojourners in a multilingual context.

The Life Cycles of Counterfactual Modal Verbs in Ancient Greek: Temporal Reference Shift, Language Ecology, and Analogy

The Life Cycles of Counterfactual Modal Verbs in Ancient Greek: Temporal Reference Shift, Language Ecology, and Analogy

Гуманитаризация экологии как метод борьбы с экологическим кризисом

The article is devoted to the analysis of the current modern trend in environmental science – the humanitarization of ecology, in which the author sees a new way to combat the environmental crisis. Practice shows that the existing measures to combat the crisis are not effective enough. It seems more appropriate to act through the formation of environmental consciousness and environmental culture, in the structure of which the emotional and personal component, empathy, and aesthetic attitude to nature play a crucial role. Modern man is catastrophically alienated from nature, his environment has long been irreducible to the natural one, it includes cultural, social and symbolic environments. The unifying methodological principle for a range of environmental disciplines, including the humanities (ecology of the visual and digital environment, ecology of language, ecology of culture) is the environmental approach. Not opposing culture, but refracting in cultural contexts, nature at a new, more meaningful level, should be included in the life world of modern man. Methods of the humanities are actively penetrating ecology. The author comes to the conclusion that the humanization of ecology helps to combat the ecological crisis through a new approach to nature (through understanding, experience, and not explanation).

‘Panda diplomacy’ and the subtle rise of a Chinese language ecology in Qatar

ABSTRACT Over the past two decades, the Chinese language has emerged as a global language. Gulf Cooperation Council countries, such as Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, have integrated Chinese language into their educational systems and established Confucius Institutes to promote Chinese language and culture. In Qatar, interest in Chinese language education has risen, though not as pronounced as its neighbouring countries. This article, grounded in a Critical Cultural Political Economy of Education (CCPEE) approach, provides a comprehensive overview of Chinese language and education policy in Qatar, utilising a mix of primary and secondary sources, and insights from the second author’s role as a Chinese language coordinator in Qatar. The article examines cultural, political, and economic aspects related to Qatar-China ties and the Chinese community in Qatar, the role of China during the World Cup, Chinese language in the linguistic landscape, Chinese language education policies, and the state of a Confucious Institute in Qatar. Finally, it offers some implications in terms of the future of Chinese language education in the country and some fruitful directions for further research.

Pergeseran dan Pemertahanan Bahasa Daerah Pengrajin Kayu di Kabupaten Tegal

This research examines the maintenance and shift of Javanese and other regional languages among wood craftsmen in Tegal Regency, Indonesia. Regional languages are integral to cultural identity, and their retention or shift reflects broader social and cultural dynamics. Using a qualitative case study approach, data was collected through observation, interviews, questionnaires, and documentation. The study employs thematic analysis to provide an in-depth understanding of language use patterns. Findings reveal a linguistic dualism in the community. While Indonesian dominates formal situations, reflecting adaptation to broader communication needs, Javanese and other regional languages prevail in daily interactions, indicating the continuity of local cultural traditions. This language shift and maintenance are influenced by social context, education, and work environment factors. The study contributes to our understanding of language ecology in multilingual Indonesian contexts, drawing on Fishman's domain analysis. It highlights how communities navigate between national and regional languages, adapting to different communication needs while preserving cultural identity. These findings have implications for language policy and cultural preservation efforts in Indonesia, particularly in balancing national unity with linguistic diversity.

TILSHUNOSLIKDA LINGVOEKOLOGIYA SOHASI VA UNGA OID ATAMALAR XUSUSIDA

In this article, the aspects that harm ecolinguistics, which is emerging as a new field in linguistics, were discussed. The directions of linguoecology such as macroecolinguistics and microecolinguistics and their main concepts were discussed. In world linguistics, the views of researchers in defining the directions of linguoecology were discussed, and the importance of these directions in the formation of the ecology of the Uzbek language was discussed.

Language Maintenance and Shift in Multilingual Ecologies: A Case Study of Ethnic Minorities in Yunnan

This study aims to address the phenomenon of language maintenance and shift in multilingual ecologies, specifically the ethnic minority communities of Yunnan province in China. The case study focuses on language ecological issues, i.e., language use, language shift, and language preservation, which resulted from language contact and cultural contact between the dominant Chinese communities and the inferior minorities across the region of Yunnan. The smaller language groups have been overlooked in favour of the larger competing languages in previous research concerning linguistic dynamics in Yunnan. By analyzing and evaluating at language competency levels, usage patterns, and skill sets among speakers from the Chinese communities, this paper seeks to restate this omission. Through the integration of language ecology approaches, the survey on everyday use of language, attitudes and transition from questionnaires were analyzed quantitatively pertaining to the impact of evolving sociodemographic factors on language retention and change in the context of Chinese communities. In this study, data regarding linguistic habits were gathered by a questionnaire survey, skill levels, and repertoires within these communities. As part of the research approach, sociolinguistic background data, language repertoires, language usage patterns, and attitudes toward various languages were all examined. The study utilized qualitative data that was collected through semi-structured interviews through the Zoom online platform and direct observations. The research illustrated the dynamic relationship between individual agency and social cause that shapes language attitudes and behaviors of different actors. It is hoped that the research findings contribute to the understanding of linguistic diversity in China, particularly in contemporary multilingual settings which may serve as concrete evidence for policymakers to revitalize ehnic minority languages. The research implies that language change on the formation of individual, group and collective identity, social cohesion within a community, and cultural heritage preservation.

Language Policy and Its Influence on Language Maintenance among Indigenous Communities in New Zealand

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the language policy and its influence on language maintenance among indigenous communities in New Zealand Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Research on language policy and its impact on language maintenance among Indigenous communities in New Zealand found that supportive policies, community involvement, and adequate resources were vital for preserving Indigenous languages. Active community participation in policy development was crucial, along with the availability of resources like bilingual education and cultural materials. Recognition of Indigenous languages as official languages alongside English also contributed to their preservation. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Language ecology theory, critical language policy theory & language rights theory may be used to anchor future studies on analyze the language policy and its influence on language maintenance among indigenous communities in New Zealand. Educational practices should emphasize the importance of bilingual and multilingual education programs that incorporate Indigenous languages alongside dominant languages in formal schooling contexts. Policy recommendations should advocate for the recognition and protection of Indigenous language rights within national and international legal frameworks.

Research on the Linguistic Landscape in Xishan Scenic Area from a Multilingual Perspective

The use of multiple languages is an important part of linguistic landscape. Taking the Xishan Scenic Area in Kunming, Yunnan Province as an example, this study examines the language ecology in the official linguistic landscape of tourist areas. It is found that the use of traditional Chinese is a prominent feature of the linguistic landscape in Xishan Scenic Area. Chinese plays a dominant role in the linguistic landscape, with the highest usage percentage and salience. Although English as a lingua franca is not salient enough compared with Chinese, it is widely used in the local linguistic landscapes. In addition to English, the official linguistic landscape of Xishan also features the use of languages such as Thai, Korean, Vietnamese, and Japanese. The findings provide an authentic portrait of the linguistic landscape in an international tourism destination in China.

ОСНОВНЫЕ ПРОБЛЕМЫ ЛИНГВОЭКОЛОГИИ: ТЕОРЕТИЧЕСКИЙ И ПРИКЛАДНОЙ АСПЕКТЫ

The author identifies the main problem field of linguoecology, gives a brief overview of linguoecological ideas and problems arising in linguistic society as a result of violation of the necessary relationship between native and acquired language resources, presents the results of a study of oral spontaneous discourse to identify existing problems of language ecology in the speech of native speakers of the Russian language.
 During the study, the author analyzed 36 recordings of oral spontaneous discourse with a total duration of 7,2 hours, representing dialogues and polylogues received from informal informants- native speakers of the Russian language – students, cafe visitors, public transport passengers, participants of TV discussions, represented in approximately equal percentages.
 The main methods of work are the method of auditory analysis, descriptive method (observation, analysis, generalization, classification), statistical method.

An analysis of gender culture based on the Internet language of “Mad literature”

Mad literature, as a new language phenomenon, although it has appeared for a short time, it has seized the psychology of contemporary young groups, and the group resonance generated by it has promoted the rampant reproduction of mad sayings, which still occupies a place in Internet terms today. From the perspective of linguistics, this paper will classify the form and content of crazy sayings, analyze the social expression effect of this kind of sayings on gender by using pragmatic principles, and explore the causes and effects of the elimination of gender differences in the ecology of network language by taking mad literature as an example.

FUNCTIONS OF ANGLICISMS IN THE MEDIA DISCOURSE OF KAZAKHSTAN

This article explores the pragmatic characteristics of English loanwords (anglicisms) and the factors contributing to their adoption and use in various languages. The study of foreign language vocabulary has always been a subject of interest, given its dynamic nature. Anglicisms have deeply integrated into the lexicon of numerous languages, with their prevalence observed across contemporary linguistic landscapes. The inclusion of anglicisms in speech serves to convey a distinctive and «special» message, with speakers opting for these loanwords to demonstrate their alignment with modernity, trends, and fashion. Several additional motives for borrowing anglicisms are identified, including the absence of equivalent terms in the target language, linguistic efficiency, more precise definitions, the necessity for novel linguistic forms, a diverse range of linguistic resources, and overall convenience. The extensive usage of anglicisms is not limited to everyday vocabulary but extends to professional communication domains. The article also delves into the concepts of «linguistic purism» and «language ecology», which have gained prominence within linguistic circles due to the widespread adoption of anglicisms. This influx compromises the uniqueness, authenticity, and originality of languages themselves. The study draws its materials from media discourse, as the media space serves as the primary source for the dissemination of anglicisms. Keywords: anglicism, pragmatic features, linguistic purism, media discourse, media text.

To the anniversary of Anatoly L. Sharandin

A brief activities’ description of Anatoly L. Sharandin, Dr.habil (Philology), Professor, Professor of Tambov Derzhavin State University, Head of the Scientific School “Ecology of Language and Speech”, one of the founders of the Tambov Linguists and Cognitologists Department, is presented. The significant moments of the researcher’s multifaceted activity in the field of linguistic research are highlighted.

Bridging the gap between theory and implementation: National language policy and documentation of mother tongue

Language is an essential aspect of identity and culture, playing a significant role in shaping a nation's socio-political landscape. This is why nations are continuously making effort to preserve their indigenous languages. This paper investigates the grey area of theory and implementation of the national language policy in the preservation, revitalization, documentation of mother tongue. It discusses the challenges such as lack of adequate instructional materials and qualified teachers in indigenous language, facing indigenous languages in Nigeria and how the implementation of language national language policy can promote mother tongue revitalization beyond the classroom. The paper adopts Language ecology model and David Crystal's theory of language revitalization to investigate the study. The paper adopts descriptive analysis methodology, which will use current and historical data to identify gaps in the study. The paper concludes that bridging the gap between theory and implementation of national language policy in Nigeria is a complex but a necessary and essential national task that involves the government allocating resources to produce adequate instructional materials and training teachers to be qualified in teaching indigenous languages. Also government and stakeholders should intensify efforts outside the classroom, preserving mother tongue and revitalizing endangered languages requires a multifaceted approach that extends well beyond the classroom, which involves fostering a cultural environment where the language is valued and used in daily life, creating intergenerational connections, leveraging technology and documenting linguistic resources.

Indigenous Language Ecologies framework

Abstract Linguistic research with Indigenous communities over several decades has shown that Indigenous contact languages have a large presence in the contemporary Indigenous landscapes of Australia, but this is not reflected in an equitable presence in policy or programs. Policy has not taken up or responded to the available language research and recommendations, nor is policy reliably informed by solid government language data. As a response to such issues, the Indigenous Language Ecologies framework has been developed. It is designed as a tool to assist policy makers to see and include the needs of contact language-speaking communities. The simple framework differentiates the main configurations of multilingualism in Indigenous communities in Australia today, comparing and contrasting the typical repertoires of speakers of contact languages, of Englishes and of traditional languages. It is intended to function as a useful heuristic and, as such, represents an example of translational research where specialist linguistic knowledge has been distilled for a non-specialist policy audience. The paper lays out the rationale for, and design of, this language ecologies approach, and its impact on policy and research to date.

An ecological approach to the lexical evolution of Chinese English

Aims and objectives: Rooted in a contact-oriented stance, this study aims to approach the dynamic evolution of Chinese English lexis from the perspective of language ecology by seeking an ecological explanation of diachronic lexical change. Specifically, it attempts to investigate the division of labor between external and internal ecological factors motivating the evolutionary patterns of Chinese English lexis in the past 60 years. Methodology: A mixed-methods approach was adopted by combining meticulous coding of each lexical item and numerical calculation of the distribution of lexical manifestations on significant linguistic dimensions. Data collection and analysis: In terms of data collection, the Chinese English lexis was sourced coherently and longitudinally from Beijing Review (1958–2018). In terms of data analysis, a systematic analytical framework of five parameters (frequency, form, grammar, word formation, and semantics) was created before qualitatively charting the features and quantitatively calculating the statistics for the value of each parameter. Findings: Externally, ecological factors bear on lexical trends of all linguistic parameters except lexical forms; internally, system–internal interactions among lexical variants project congruent patterns of alignment among various sets of features of all parameters except grammar. Originality: Few studies have approached the Chinese English lexis from the diachronic perspective through the lens of language evolution based on coherently sourced data and systematic analytical procedures. Significance: The study is enlightening in providing basic statistics to permit comparisons of lexical evolution in the five linguistic parameters across Expanding Circle ecologies and in extending the evolutionary approach to language change to the lexical realm in the Chinese English context.

Holistic approaches to the study of emotions and identity in language learning and use: Complex dynamic systems theory, language ecology, and post-structuralism

In the field of English applied linguistics, learners and their learning processes including their psychological and emotional responses to second language acquisition (SLA) were traditionally researched in isolation following the psychometric tradition. By contrast, learners’ idiosyncratic, and often life-changing experiences that shape their identities are usually examined holistically drawing on interviews and case studies. In this paper, I discuss how I brought under the same roof these two seemingly incompatible research traditions to shed light on language learners’ multilingual and multicultural identity construction. The paper draws on the basic tenets that language and culture are inherently intertwined in SLA (Kramsch 1998) and that language learning is embodied (Damasio 1994) generating powerful emotional responses to language learning and use. In the paper, I delineate three holistic approaches to the study of emotions and identity in SLA including complex dynamic systems theory (CDST), language ecology, and post-structuralism. These approaches have three important principles in common. (1) They look at learners holistically in their complexity and entirety. (2) They perceive learner-intrinsic and contextual factors as interconnected, dynamic, and changing over time. (3) They examine learners and their learning processes in response to environmental stimuli in the form of interactions with others, learning materials, the learning environment, languages spoken by the individual, as well as the educational and sociocultural context. Following the introduction of the three theories, I present my latest research results drawing on these theoretical underpinnings. I explain how I conceptualized learners’ identity construction as a complex dynamic system of individual differences and how I detected novel patterns of psychological behavior using CDST in online education. Then, I discuss the impact of language socialization on language learning and use drawing on case studies. Finally, I present examples of powerful emotional and identity responses to language learning and use, the transformative potential of SLA, and the language learner’s imagined L2 habitus (Fekete 2018) pinpointing how learners speak, think, feel, and behave differently when they switch to different languages. / Keywords: emotions, identity, language learning, the psychology of learners, complex dynamic systems theory, language ecology, post-structuralism, holistic approaches, online education, language socialization, the learner’s imagined L2 habitus, online education