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Aims & Scope

Aims

The Journal of English and Applied Linguistics (JEAL) publishes high-quality research that addresses language-related challenges through both empirical and theoretical approaches. It values studies with scientific rigor that advance debates and issues, propose new frameworks, or synthesize scholarship in applied linguistics. By linking theory with practice, the journal fosters discussions in language research, education, and use. Its scope is relevant to diverse professional and societal contexts where effective communication is essential and where understanding of language helps address real-world problems, particularly in education, healthcare, media, business, law, governance, technology, social justice, and intercultural communication.

JEAL distinguishes itself by foregrounding the role of language research in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting scholarship that connects language studies with global sustainability, equity, inclusion, and collaboration. This distinct focus positions JEAL as a venue for research that contributes meaningfully to both academic discourse and societal transformation.

All submissions undergo rigorous peer review and must adhere to international ethical standards in scholarly publishing.

Intended Readership

JEAL serves an international readership of academics, educators, linguists, policymakers, and language professionals who seek to apply linguistic theory to practical challenges and engage with the latest advancements in applied linguistics. The journal welcomes contributions from scholars worldwide, including those working across the Inner, Outer, and Expanding Circles of English, and encourages comparative and cross-cultural perspectives. JEAL particularly values submissions that foster international collaboration and highlight diverse linguistic and cultural contexts.

Scope

JEAL invites submissions exploring language in varied contexts, focusing on both theoretical and applied aspects. Key areas include:

  • Language and Pedagogy: English for Academic Purposes; language teaching, learning, and assessment; classroom discourse; spirituality, identity, and criticality in language education. Contributions promoting inclusive quality education (SDG 4) are encouraged.
  • Language in Society: Multilingualism; language contact, variation and change; language ideologies and attitudes; language planning and policy; language and politics; language in migration; media discourse; identity and power; interpersonal and intercultural communication. Research on reduced inequalities (SDG 10) and gender equality (SDG 5) is prioritized.
  • Language in Professional Contexts: English for Specific Purposes; legal and healthcare systems; organizational and institutional communication. Studies contributing to peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16) are welcomed.
  • Language and Technology: Internet linguistics; AI in teaching, learning, assessment, and research. Work supporting sustainable communities (SDG 11) through digital inclusion is encouraged.
  • Language and the Brain: Language acquisition and cognitive processing.
  • Language and Ecology: Research on the intersections of language and ecological issues, including sustainability and environmental discourse. Submissions may examine how language shapes public understanding of climate change, biodiversity, conservation, and sustainable practices, as well as how discourse informs ecological policy. Such work connects applied linguistics to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 12–15), including responsible consumption and production, climate action, life below water, and life on land.

Article Types

JEAL publishes both empirical and non-empirical scholarly work, including:

  • Original empirical research: Systematic data collection and analysis offering new insights.
  • Theoretical and conceptual papers: Extending or introducing new models, concepts, or frameworks.
  • Perspectives and reflective articles: Author viewpoints or critical self-analysis of professional, research, or teaching experiences.
  • Review articles: Scoping or systematic reviews mapping existing scholarship, identifying gaps, and future directions.
  • Editorials: Framing issues, introducing special topics, and contributing to current debates.

Submissions may be full-length articles (7,000–8,000 words) or short communications (3,500–4,500 words). All manuscripts must demonstrate scholarly rigor, originality, and relevance to applied linguistics.