In contemporary societies across the world, people with diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds encounter and share their living and working environment. What kind of language phenomenon arise in such multilinguistic and multicultural societies? What kind of linguistic and educational policies should be adopted in relation to this diversity? How do people use languages and what kind of problems do they encounter in multicultural settings? In this research project, we will ask and reflect upon questions such as these, seeking to understand linguistic phenomena; to examine, assess and propose linguistic, cultural, and educational policies; and to inquire into how to spread social awareness on problems and challenges regarding coexistence in multilinguistic and multicultural societies.
The research project will consist of (1) collaborative research projects on language, culture and society organized by the participating faculty members and graduate students, and (2) advisory sessions centered on the presentations of the students about the progress of their individual research.