Plurilingualism: A Review of Theory and Current Practice

This article outlines a literature review of the current anglophone academic literature pertaining to plurilingualism. We summarize 24 of the most pertinent articles in terms of resistance to the adoption of plurilingual pedagogy; key factors in changing attitudes toward the approach; identified classroom options; and implications for teacher education. To us, it is clear that plurilingualism can make a difference in terms of facilitating gains in linguistic abilities, strengthening student self-confidence, and addressing issues related to social justice. Conceptually, language should be linked to multiple repertoires and identities that are living entities rather than things to be mastered. However, concrete institutional policy and material supports are key. We do note that much work within the previous literature also problematized decontextualized and standardized orientations toward language, especially in terms of the erroneous notion of the "native speaker." Through this literature review, however, we argue that plurilingualism can potentially deepen this trend and add valuable conceptual insights and contribute to concrete pedagogical change as long as the concerns of classroom teachers are respected. Thus, it is not completely a case of plurilingualism amounting to being "old wine in new bottles."