Corpus Linguistics for Language Learning Research

This book serves as an introduction to corpus linguistics (CL) for graduate students and researchers in Applied Linguistics, Second Language Acquisition (SLA), TESOL, and language teaching. It provides a structured and accessible approach for those new to CL, equipping readers with the foundational concepts and tools required to analyse language corpora autonomously in research related to language learning. The text explores how CL methods can inform key areas such as contrastive analysis of learner language, second language acquisition, and corpus-informed pedagogy. It also contextualises CL’s development over the past four decades, offering critical reflections on its practices and applications. Readers with prior knowledge of CL will find additional insights and practical applications that enhance their understanding of its relevance to language learning research. Each chapter integrates recommended readings and highlights central concepts, guiding readers in applying CL methods to their own studies. By the end of the book, readers will have gained the knowledge and practical expertise needed to apply corpus linguistics methods in conducting robust and innovative language research.