Journal of Second Language Studies

Scope & Guideline

Empowering Educators with Groundbreaking Language Insights

Introduction

Welcome to your portal for understanding Journal of Second Language Studies, featuring guidelines for its aims and scope. Our guidelines cover trending and emerging topics, identifying the forefront of research. Additionally, we track declining topics, offering insights into areas experiencing reduced scholarly attention. Key highlights include highly cited topics and recently published papers, curated within these guidelines to assist you in navigating influential academic dialogues.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN2542-3835
PublisherJOHN BENJAMINS PUBLISHING CO
Support Open AccessNo
CountryNetherlands
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2018 to 2024
AbbreviationJ SECOND LANG STUD / J. Second Lang. Stud.
Frequency2 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressPO BOX 36224, 1020 ME AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

Aims and Scopes

The Journal of Second Language Studies aims to advance the understanding of second language acquisition, processing, and pedagogy through rigorous research and innovative methodologies. It encompasses a wide range of topics within the field, focusing on both theoretical frameworks and practical implications for language learning and teaching.
  1. Second Language Acquisition (SLA) Research:
    The journal publishes studies that explore the processes and factors involved in acquiring a second language, including cognitive, social, and contextual influences.
  2. Language Processing and Production:
    Research on how second language learners process and produce language in real-time, including studies on fluency, comprehension, and the cognitive mechanisms underlying these processes.
  3. Pedagogical Methods and Interventions:
    Studies investigating the effectiveness of various teaching methods and interventions in second language education, including task-based learning, feedback mechanisms, and strategy instruction.
  4. Cross-Linguistic Influence:
    Exploration of how learners' first languages affect their acquisition and use of a second language, including studies on transfer effects and interlanguage development.
  5. Language Assessment and Evaluation:
    Research focused on methodologies for assessing language proficiency and the effectiveness of language learning interventions, utilizing both traditional and innovative assessment techniques.
  6. Sociolinguistics and Language Identity:
    Investigations into the social dimensions of language learning, including identity formation, agency, and the role of culture in second language acquisition.
Recent publications in the Journal of Second Language Studies reveal emerging themes that reflect contemporary challenges and advancements in the field. These themes highlight the evolving landscape of second language research and its relevance to current educational practices.
  1. Technology-Enhanced Language Learning:
    There is a growing interest in how technology, such as apps and online platforms like Duolingo, affects second language acquisition and learner engagement, reflecting the increasing integration of digital tools in language education.
  2. Plurilingualism and Multilingual Education:
    Research on cultivating plurilingual identities among learners is on the rise, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and valuing multiple languages and cultures in the language learning process.
  3. Cognitive and Affective Factors in Language Learning:
    Studies focusing on the interplay between cognitive aspects (like working memory) and emotional factors (such as anxiety) in language learning are gaining traction, acknowledging the complex nature of language acquisition.
  4. Neuroscientific Approaches to Language Processing:
    Emerging research employing neuroscientific methods to understand language processing in second language learners indicates a trend towards interdisciplinary approaches that bridge linguistics and cognitive science.
  5. Contextualized Interactional Competence:
    There is an increasing focus on developing measures for interactional competence that take into account the contextual factors influencing communication, moving beyond traditional linguistic competence assessments.

Declining or Waning

While the Journal of Second Language Studies continues to cover a broad range of topics, certain themes have shown a decline in publication frequency. This waning focus may reflect changing research interests or shifts in the broader academic discourse around second language studies.
  1. Traditional Grammar Instruction:
    There appears to be a decreasing emphasis on studies solely focused on traditional grammar instruction methods, as contemporary research increasingly favors communicative and contextualized approaches to language teaching.
  2. Purely Theoretical Linguistic Models:
    Research that relies strictly on theoretical models without empirical validation seems to be less prevalent, suggesting a shift towards studies that emphasize practical applications and evidence-based practices.
  3. Static Views of Language Proficiency:
    The journal is moving away from static, one-dimensional assessments of language proficiency, indicating a trend towards dynamic, process-oriented views of language learning and development.

Similar Journals

RAEL-Revista Electronica de Linguistica Aplicada

Advancing the Frontiers of Applied Linguistics
Publisher: ASOC ESPANOLA LINGUISTICA APLICADA-AESLAISSN: 1885-9089Frequency: 1 issue/year

RAEL-Revista Electronica de Linguistica Aplicada, published by the ASOC ESPANOLA LINGUISTICA APLICADA-AESLA, is a prominent open access journal that has been serving the field of applied linguistics since its inception in 2002. With a dedicated focus on the interplay between language and its practical applications in various contexts, the journal aims to disseminate high-quality research and foster academic discourse among linguists, educators, and policy makers alike. Based in Spain at the Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, RAEL is indexed in Scopus and offers access to a global readership. With a current impact factor reflecting its esteem in the fields of Education, Linguistics, and Social Sciences, the journal ranks in Q3 for linguistics and has achieved significant positioning within its categories. Researchers and students seeking to explore applied linguistic phenomena will find valuable insights and diverse perspectives in its published articles, making RAEL a vital resource in the pursuit of knowledge advancement in this dynamic discipline.

Reading in a Foreign Language

Fostering Excellence in Language Education Research
Publisher: UNIV HAWAII, COLL LANGUAGES LINGUISTICS & LITERATUREISSN: 1539-0578Frequency: 2 issues/year

Reading in a Foreign Language is a premier academic journal published by the University of Hawaii, College of Languages, Linguistics & Literature, dedicated to fostering the field of second language acquisition. With an ISSN of 1539-0578, this esteemed journal boasts a solid reputation, being ranked in the Q1 quartile in both Education and Linguistics, highlighting its significant impact within these disciplines. Covering the latest research and advancements from 2019 to 2024, Reading in a Foreign Language serves as an essential resource for educators, researchers, and students aiming to deepen their understanding of reading proficiency in second languages. Although Open Access is not offered, the journal's influential position is underscored by its impressive Scopus rankings, with 82nd percentile status in Linguistics and Language, and 52nd percentile in Education, making it a valuable asset for those enhancing their academic and professional pursuits in language studies.

Sintagma

Connecting Theory and Practice in Language Studies.
Publisher: UNIV LLEIDAISSN: 0214-9141Frequency: 1 issue/year

Sintagma is a prominent academic journal dedicated to advancing the field of Linguistics and Language, published by the Universitat de Lleida in Spain. With an ISSN of 0214-9141 and an E-ISSN of 2013-6455, this journal has established itself as an open-access platform since 1989, thereby ensuring wide accessibility and dissemination of research. The journal's commitment to quality is reflected in its ranking within the Q4 quartile of Linguistics and Language in 2021 and a similar standing in Social Sciences and Arts and Humanities, which underscores its emerging importance in these fields despite recent challenges. Covering topics that span theoretical inquiries to applied linguistic studies, Sintagma invites researchers, professionals, and students to contribute to and engage with its evolving landscape from its unique academic perspective. With the convergence of research years from 2011 to 2018 and upcoming issues through 2024, the journal remains poised to provide insightful content that addresses the linguistic dimensions of contemporary society.

First Language

Cultivating Expertise in Linguistic Development
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTDISSN: 0142-7237Frequency: 6 issues/year

First Language is a prestigious journal dedicated to the study of language acquisition, development, and use, published by SAGE Publications Ltd. With an ISSN of 0142-7237 and E-ISSN 1740-2344, this journal has been a vital resource in the fields of Education and Linguistics since its inception in 1980. It proudly holds a 2023 Q1 ranking in Linguistics and Language and a Q2 ranking in Education, underscoring its significant impact and contribution to these dynamic fields. Positioned in the 91st and 90th percentiles in Scopus rankings for Language and Linguistics and Social Sciences, respectively, First Language attracts a global readership, fostering rigorous scholarly discussion and exploration. The journal is not Open Access, ensuring that its curated content maintains a high level of academic integrity and exclusivity. With a rich historical scope extending to 2024, First Language serves as an essential platform for researchers, practitioners, and students committed to advancing our understanding of language in all its complexities.

Linguistic Research

Connecting Researchers and Ideas in Linguistic Research
Publisher: KYUNGHEE UNIV, INST STUDY LANGUAGE & INFORMATIONISSN: 1229-1374Frequency: 3 issues/year

Linguistic Research, published by the Kyung Hee University Institute for Study of Language & Information, stands as a prominent platform within the field of linguistics and language studies. With an ISSN of 1229-1374, this journal has gained recognition for its contributions to theoretical and empirical research since its inception in 2014. Ranked in the Q2 category of linguistics and language in 2023, it has established its presence in prestigious databases like Scopus, where it ranks #404 in Arts and Humanities and #479 in Social Sciences. The journal actively encourages scholarly discussion and innovation, providing a crucial venue for researchers, professionals, and students to disseminate their findings and engage in the evolving conversation around language. Despite not being open access, Linguistic Research is pivotal for those seeking comprehensive insights and advancements in linguistic studies, making it an essential resource for anyone passionate about the dynamics of language and communication.

TESL Canada Journal

Bridging Theory and Practice in Language Learning
Publisher: TESL CANADAISSN: 0826-435XFrequency: 2 issues/year

TESL Canada Journal, published by TESL Canada, serves as a vital resource for researchers, educators, and practitioners in the field of English as a Second Language (ESL) and applied linguistics. With its commitment to advancing scholarship and best practices in language education, this esteemed journal fosters a platform for the dissemination of high-quality research and innovative pedagogical approaches. Although it operates without open access, its comprehensive articles and reviews offer valuable insights into current trends and challenges faced by ESL educators across Canada and internationally. The journal is dedicated to promoting a deeper understanding of language acquisition processes and instructional methodologies, contributing significantly to the professional development of its readership. Located in Burnaby, Canada, the journal aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice, making it an indispensable source for educators and researchers looking to enhance their expertise in ESL education.

Linguistic Approaches to Bilingualism

Pioneering Interdisciplinary Approaches to Language Studies
Publisher: JOHN BENJAMINS PUBLISHING COISSN: 1879-9264Frequency: 6 issues/year

Linguistic Approaches to Bilingualism, published by John Benjamins Publishing Co, stands as a leading journal in the field of linguistics, particularly recognizing the complexities and nuances of bilingualism. Established in 2011, this journal has quickly risen to prominence, achieving a Q1 ranking in Linguistics and Language as of 2023, underscoring its impact and relevance within the academic community. With an impressive Scopus ranking that places it in the top 12% and 13% in the Arts and Humanities and Social Sciences categories respectively, it is an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. The journal aims to publish innovative and interdisciplinary research that contributes to a deeper understanding of bilingual language processing, acquisition, and usage, making it invaluable for those studying the interplay of language and cognition. Although it does not currently offer open access options, its rigorous peer-review process ensures that each publication meets the highest academic standards, fostering insightful discussions and advancements within the field.

Language and Sociocultural Theory

Advancing Insights into Linguistic Dynamics
Publisher: EQUINOX PUBLISHING LTDISSN: 2051-9699Frequency: 2 issues/year

Language and Sociocultural Theory, published by EQUINOX PUBLISHING LTD, stands as a vital resource for scholars in the domains of linguistic studies and cultural theory. With its ISSN 2051-9699 and E-ISSN 2051-9702, this UK-based journal has consistently achieved Q1 rankings in both Cultural Studies and Linguistics and Language as of 2023, demonstrating its significant impact within the academic community. The journal's position is further affirmed by its rankings in Scopus, where it occupies the 80th percentile in Cultural Studies and the 72nd percentile in Linguistics and Language, making it a leading platform for cutting-edge research. Though not an Open Access journal, it provides critical insights into the interconnectedness of language and sociocultural dynamics, making it essential reading for researchers, professionals, and students eager to explore the complexities of human communication. Spanning converged years from 2014 to 2023, the journal presents a rich collection of scholarly articles that strive to advance the field and inspire further academic inquiry.

Yuyan Kexue-Linguistic Sciences

Exploring the Frontiers of Linguistic Knowledge
Publisher: SCIENCE PRESSISSN: 1671-9484Frequency: 6 issues/year

Yuyan Kexue-Linguistic Sciences, published by SCIENCE PRESS, is a pivotal academic journal dedicated to the field of linguistics. With its ISSN of 1671-9484, this journal seeks to explore and illuminate various linguistic phenomena, contributing significantly to the understanding of language in both theoretical and applied contexts. Emphasizing interdisciplinary research, it welcomes contributions that bridge linguistics with areas such as cognitive science, sociology, and communication studies. Although it currently does not offer open access, Yuyan Kexue-Linguistic Sciences aims to provide a platform for researchers, professionals, and students alike to engage with cutting-edge studies and emerging trends in linguistics. Its publication location in Beijing positions it as a vital contributor to the global discourse in the linguistic sciences, catering to both a national and international audience. As the journal continues to grow, it aspires to maintain high academic standards and foster scholarly exchange for years to come.

Bilingualism-Language and Cognition

Advancing Insights into Bilingualism and Cognition
Publisher: CAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESSISSN: 1366-7289Frequency: 5 issues/year

Bilingualism-Language and Cognition, published by Cambridge University Press, is a leading journal in the fields of Education and Linguistics, renowned for its rigorous academic contributions and influential research. With an impressive impact factor placing it in the Q1 quartile of both fields, this journal ranks among the top-tier publications globally, reflecting its commitment to advancing the understanding of bilingualism and its cognitive implications. Since its inception in 2005, Bilingualism-Language and Cognition has garnered significant attention, evidenced by its remarkable Scopus rankings—11th in Language and Linguistics and 12th in Social Sciences. Dedicated to publishing high-quality original research, reviews, and integrative studies, the journal aims to foster interdisciplinary dialogue among researchers, educators, and practitioners. Although not currently an open access journal, it remains a vital resource for those engaged in bilingualism research and its cognitive dimensions, contributing to the academic landscape from its home in Cambridge, United Kingdom.