Provides a guide to basic research in second-language acquisition by characterizing distinct perspectives from foreign language teaching, first-language acquisition, psycholinguistics, and sociocultural factors. Argues that crucial insights of the sociocultural perspective must be introduced for adequate assessments of bilingual individuals. (JB)

Introduces the articles in this issue of "Educational Researcher," and discusses their collective focus on the need to enrich the research perspective on bilingual education. Argues for the importance of basic research, case studies, and taking the reality of practice and ideology into account. (JB)

Uses a sociocultural perspective that acknowledges the many resources for children beyond school for language acquisition to describe how research about children' communities can be used to enhance bilingual instruction. Argues for the redefinition of researchers' and teachers' roles for a collaborative working relationship to bring about…