Research Synthesis in Applied Linguistics

The only applied linguistics journal specialising in research syntheses, published by Taylor & Francis (8K-20K words) || Editors: @sinwangchong @Sathena_Chan

[Research Synthesis in Applied Linguistics @RSALJournal]

Learn how to be "SMART" when conducting research syntheses in applied linguistics!

1 post every week about the SMART tool.

Week 1 - here we go!

[TESOLgraphics @tesolgraphics]

Language teachers - here is this week’s infographic summary on reducing Ss’ foreign language anxiety (FLA)!

This infographic summarises evidence from 56 studies.

🧑‍🏫 Applying self-driven learning & de-centralising grammar and pronunciation can increase foreign language enjoyment (FLE).

👨‍🏫 FLE is more beneficial to younger Ss because there is a stronger positive association between their FLE and self-perceived.

Find out more in this week’s infographic!

🤳Scan the QR code on the infographic OR click the link 🔗 to original article:

https://t.co/42HuEv5juy

🔗 To infographic pdf:

https://t.co/ruQjWRytZz

We are proud to be funded by and/or collaborating with @StA_IEI @TESOL_Assn @OASIS_Database @uandresbello @OpenAppLing

[TESOLgraphics @tesolgraphics]

What research says about teacher cognition, practices, and expertise?

This infographic summarises evidence from 67 studies.

🧑‍🏫 Ts can adjust their instructional approaches to overcome challenges and align with Ss’ needs.

👨‍🏫 Ts can embrace pedagogical advancements & consider taking leadership roles in writing instruction innovation.

🤳Scan the QR code on the infographic OR click the link 🔗 to original article:

https://t.co/7ZLUeYuhn9

🔗 To infographic pdf:

https://t.co/caZ8mt1yWC

We are proud to be funded by and/or collaborating with @StA_IEI @TESOL_Assn @OASIS_Database @uandresbello @OpenAppLing

[TESOLgraphics @tesolgraphics]

What does research say about applying translanguaging in EMI classrooms?

🧑‍🏫 Specific terms & concepts can be scaffolded by using translanguaging.

👨‍🏫 Orchestrating translanguaging practices can foster educational equity & epidemic justice.

🤳Scan the QR code on the infographic OR click the link 🔗 to original article:

https://t.co/mUhGP0tfF3

🔗 To infographic pdf:

https://t.co/teIyvUqLny

We are proud to be funded by and/or collaborating with @StA_IEI @TESOL_Assn @OASIS_Database @uandresbello @OpenAppLing

[Research Synthesis in Applied Linguistics @RSALJournal]

New publication in RSAL:

Jin, C. (2026). Exploring the Research Landscape and Trends of Dynamic Assessment in Second Language Education: A Bibliometric Analysis. Research Synthesis in Applied Linguistics, 1–34. https://t.co/yZ9A4xOVJG

[TESOLgraphics @tesolgraphics]

Language teachers - here is a question for you this week!

Do you allow your students to speak languages other than the target language in class?

[Research Synthesis in Applied Linguistics @RSALJournal]

New publication:

Stansfield, L., Sénécal, A. M., He, S., & Suvorov, R. (2026). The Impact of Test Preparation Practices on L2 Test Performance and Language Proficiency: A Systematic Review. Research Synthesis in Applied Linguistics, 1–33. https://t.co/vUaDMYS5xh

[Research Synthesis in Applied Linguistics @RSALJournal]

New publication:

Twente, L. R., & Marx, N. (2026). How Do We Research Language Skills and Repertoires of Newly Immigrated Students? A Scoping Review of Studies in German-Speaking Countries. Research Synthesis in Applied Linguistics, 1–45. https://t.co/ILvwBhGQXW

[Shaofeng Li @ShaofengLi9]

Meta-Analysis in Second Language Acquisition https://t.co/vAx1peEOpj

[Research Synthesis in Applied Linguistics @RSALJournal]

New publication:

Twente, L. R., & Marx, N. (2026). How Do We Research Language Skills and Repertoires of Newly Immigrated Students? A Scoping Review of Studies in German-Speaking Countries. Research Synthesis in Applied Linguistics, 1–45. https://t.co/ILvwBhGQXW

[TESOLgraphics @tesolgraphics]

What does research say about using AI in language learning?

This infographic summarises evidence from 272 studies.

📝 Strongest evidence was found on writing assistants, suggesting Ts can use AI on productive skills.

🧑‍🏫 When using AI, Ts are recommended to consider the whole picture of a learner as their emotional responses, i.e motivation, confident & anxiety are as important as their performance. 

🤳Scan the QR code on the infographic OR click the link 🔗 to original article:

https://t.co/sCV8iNfdAF

🔗 To infographic pdf:

https://t.co/aCjsoOSSjq

We are proud to be funded by and/or collaborating with @StA_IEI @TESOL_Assn @OASIS_Database @uandresbello @OpenAppLing

[TESOLgraphics @tesolgraphics]

What does research say about how teachers can support Ss’ heritage language development?

This infographic summarises evidence from 83 studies.

🎭 Complementary school Ts can use creative pedagogies, such as drama and digital storytelling.

🧑‍🏫 Mainstream school Ts can recognise heritage languages through daily acts.

🤳Scan the QR code on the infographic OR click the link 🔗 to original article:

https://t.co/6ktIeikvrL

🔗 To infographic pdf:

https://t.co/rBDhqbO0Lm

We are proud to be funded by and/or collaborating with @StA_IEI @TESOL_Assn @OASIS_Database @uandresbello @OpenAppLing

[TESOLgraphics @tesolgraphics]

Language teachers - here is a question for you this week!

When you are teaching, how often do you consider Ss’ heritage language background to inform your practice?

[TESOLgraphics @tesolgraphics]

What does research say about AI in language assessment?

This infographic summarises evidence from 212 studies.

👨‍🏫 Managers can identify & test new ways Ts are integrating AI into local grading & feedback.

🧑‍🏫 Ts can help Ss understand the specific role of AI in the assessment process.

🤳Scan the QR code on the infographic OR click the link 🔗 to original article:

https://t.co/Dz7V7vaXgy

🔗 To infographic pdf:

https://t.co/GdRy57rDzn

We are proud to be funded by and/or collaborating with @StA_IEI @TESOL_Assn @OASIS_Database @uandresbello @OpenAppLing

[Research Synthesis in Applied Linguistics @RSALJournal]

Link to publication: https://t.co/oGwRX2OWWr

[Research Synthesis in Applied Linguistics @RSALJournal]

New 🔓publication in RSAL:

Li, X., Zhou, Y., & Liu, Y. (2026). Heritage Language Education at a Crossroads: A Systematic Review of two Decades of Research in the UK (2004–2024).
十字路口的选择：英国传承语教育研究二十年 (2004–2024)之系统性回顾

[Research Synthesis in Applied Linguistics @RSALJournal]

Upcoming webinar organised by British Association For Applied Linguistics (BAAL)'s Research Synthesis in Applied Linguistics SIG

Scan the QR code in the attached flyer to register or use this link: https://t.co/wplV6YK4A7

[Research Synthesis in Applied Linguistics @RSALJournal]

https://t.co/QEoTXiSswv

[Research Synthesis in Applied Linguistics @RSALJournal]

New open-access 🔓publication in RSAL Journal:

Wang, Y., Zhang, Z. J., & Zhou, H. (2026). Artificial Intelligence in Language Learning: A Twenty-Year Scoping Review of Applications, Research Methods, and Outcomes. Research Synthesis in Applied Linguistics, 1–38.

[TESOLgraphics @tesolgraphics]

What does research say about the benefits of implementing VR into language learning?

This infographic summarises evidence from 55 studies.

🧑‍🏫 VR can increase Ss’ engagement by providing an immersive, authentic & interactive environment.

👨‍🏫 VR can enhance vocab learning, speaking fluency & reduce anxiety consistently.

🤳Scan the QR code on the infographic OR click the link 🔗 to original article:

https://t.co/Pbrl8tJw63

🔗 To infographic pdf:

https://t.co/5iCLfZHxBH

We are proud to be funded by and/or collaborating with @StA_IEI @TESOL_Assn @OASIS_Database @uandresbello @OpenAppLing

[TESOLgraphics @tesolgraphics]

TESOLgraphic’s podcast🎙️ is now available! Listen to our talk shows on Spotify!

https://t.co/Cp6QFHNUEA