Multilingualism

Multilingualism is defined as using more than one language or being able to function, at some level, in more than one language. Some people grow up in multilingual communities where they acquire multiple languages from early on, while others learn foreign languages later in life. Our research themes reflect linguistic diversity in communities in Ireland, EU and globally. The proximity of Galway to the Connemara Gaeltacht links University of Galway to the largest Irish-speaking population in Ireland. Recently, Galway was identified as the most diverse city in Ireland, having the highest percentage of non-nationals and over 60 languages. This has significant impacts on education resulting in many multilingual children in some of the city’s and county’s schools. Our research is related to different multilingual populations aiming to provide the basis for equal educational and speech and language therapy services for all.  

For further details, please check the staff profiles of the researchers contributing to this theme: