The 16 papers presented in this volume are arranged according to three sub-topics of the general theme of second language instruction: individual needs, interdisciplinary cooperation, and multilingualism. The first paper in each section is the main lecture, which is followed by specialized lectures. (JB)

Argues that objective conditions are always interacting with widespread "subjective definitions" to explain the variable capacities of linguistic minorities. Looks at the hypothesis formed by Giles, Bourhis, and Taylor in their theory of language in ethnic group relations as it relates to the multilingual context of the Valdotan…

This paper situates languages in the framework of European construction, analyzing problems resulting from the definition of languages' official status in the European Union (EU) juridical system. It explains that the process of European construction is historically defined by means of two distinct features (it is an open process, and at the same…

Provides a brief overview of the main methodological tools used in studies of language attitudes, focusing on the paradigm of speaker evaluation. Discusses the kinds of findings emerging from these studies and speculates on priorities for future language attitude research. (EKN)

Discusses the importance of research on language attitudes, especially in a multilingual situation and gives examples of recent research. (EKN)

Describes "Radio Rurale": A language-by-radio service provided to the rural population of Upper Volta by the Voltain government. The service is responsible for carrying programs to the 44 different subgroups of Volta in seventeen indigenous languages. Programs include radio magazines, game shows, chronicles, and special cultural…

Argues that linguists have marginalized multilingualism and neglected the complexities of multilinguals' language behavior, being reluctant to modify, reformulate, or reassess favorite paradigms of language acquisition, linguistic creativity, language function, and language contact. Three resulting "paradigms of marginality" are…

Suggests Papua New Guinea offers a practical example of how a small, multilingual country with limited resources has developed a package of strategies for dealing with the challenges of multilingualism and using its multiplicity of languages in education as a tool for improving teaching and learning, saving resources, and moving towards education…

Reviews research that has increased understanding of language ideologies and social justice in multilingual states and offers a detailed analysis of a language ideological debate in local news media. Suggests that scrutiny of the language of media elites is required before it is possible to come to a fuller understanding of the ways in which…

Describes language border fluctuations in Belgium as far as its Dutch-French portion is concerned. Examines the status and function of the language border in Belgium and of actual border fluctuations. Discusses two problem areas in detail: the "Voerstreek, and the Brussels suburban region. Language shift and language change through erosion in…

Systems of bilingual education in three neighboring countries, Singapore, Malaysia, and Brunei Darussalam are examined in an attempt to understand basic issues. These are all Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries that fall into the category of Small Young Countries as discussed in Pakir (1992a). (Contains 43 references.) (JL)

Provides a broad sketch of the evolving world language system, introduces an index for the communication potential (Q-value) of languages within this constellation, and identifies languages as collective goods that also display "external network effects," characteristics they share with standards and non-excludable networks.(Author/JL)

Discusses the UNESCO report "Our Creative Diversity," which links development and culture and argues that languages will not survive due to law but because of the respect given them and the milieu in which they are (or are not) used. The article points out that bilinguals are more used to switching thought patterns, have more flexible…

Proposes two new models of language planning. The first develops a three-level view of language planning and aims to develop a more strategic approach. The second, the Integrated Planning model, is designed to facilitate a comprehensive and integrative approach to reinforcing targeted languages. (Author/VWL)