Reimagining Bilingual Acquisition and Theory: An Insider Perspective through a Translanguaging Lens

Abstract

Purpose: This is an exploratory study evaluating the differences in findings when reinterpreting data that was once studied under a Dual Systems Model in a translanguaging approach as well as being interpreted by researchers representative of the communities being studied. Additionally, this study aims to improve the theoretical rationale for bilingual service delivery in speech-language pathology. Methods: Three papers studying bilingual phonology were selected. Interpretations of findings were pulled and reinterpreted following discussed parameters of translanguaging. Results: Differences arose between interpretations under a Dual Systems Hypothesis Framework and under a translanguaging approach. Furthermore, other implications were found as a result of viewing data as a research insider. Conclusions: Differences in data interpretation reveal that translanguaging may improve understanding of languaging in bilingual/multilingual communities and implications for research and service delivery are discussed.