Concepts such as dependability/generalization and inferences are dealt with implicitly or explicitly in any research undertaken in applied linguistics. This volume provides a well-balanced and cross-disciplinary perspective on how researchers conceptualize inferences about learner acquisition and performances as well as dependability and generalizability of findings.

The book is a collection of chapters by prominent researchers in applied linguistics, working in diverse domains such as vocabulary, syntax, discourse analysis, SLA, and language testing. The goal of the book is to bring attention to these issues, which underpin much of applied linguistics research and to highlight what is considered good practice so as to buttress confidence in the research claims made.

The book represents current thinking on fundamental research concepts in applied linguistics and can be used as a textbook in courses on research methodology in applied linguistics. The book is also an excellent source of in-depth analysis of research conceptualization for applied linguistics researchers and graduate students.

Table of contents

Drawing the line: The generalizability and limitations of research in applied linguistics Micheline Chalhoub-Deville 1–5

I. Perspectives on inference and generalizability in applied linguistics 1. Old and new thoughts on test score variability: Implications for reliability and validity Craig Deville and Micheline Chalhoub-Deville 9–25 2. Validity and values: Inferences and generalizability in language testing Tim MacNamara 27–45

3. L2 vocabulary acquisition theory: The role of inference, dependability and generalizability in assessment Carol A. Chapelle 47–64

4. Beyond generalizability: Contextualization, complexity, and credibility in applied linguistics research Patricia A. Duff 65–95

5. Verbal protocols: What does it mean for research to use speaking as a data collection tool? Merrill Swain 97–113

6. Functional grammar: On the value and limitations of dependability, inference, and generalizability Diane Larsen-Freeman 115–133

7. A conversation analytic perspective on the role of quantification and generalizability in second language acquisition Numa Markee 135–162

II. Discussion 8. Generalizability: A journey into the nature of empirical research in applied linguistics Lyle F. Bachman 165–207 9. Generalizability: What are we generalizing anyway? Susan M. Gass 209–220

10. Negotiating methodological rich points in applied linguistics research: An ethnographer's view Nancy H. Hornberger 221–240 Index 241–248