Modern Language Journal (MLJ)

SLA is not in crisis. It is flourishing. Pekarek Doehler et al. argue that pluralism is not a problem to be solved but a condition to be valued. Pekarek Doehler et al. (2026). The Modern Language Journal. doi.org/10.1111/modl.7…

Does SLA need one neat theory, or is the field too complex for that? Lowie argues for a holistic perspective grounded in Complex Dynamic Systems Theory. Lowie (2026). The Modern Language Journal. doi.org/10.1111/modl.7…

In 1996, Lantolf urged SLA to "let all the flowers bloom." Three decades later, Atkinson finds himself arguing for that very position in response to Lantolf's own crisis claims. Atkinson (2026). The Modern Language Journal. doi.org/10.1111/modl.7…

Can cognitive and humanistic approaches to SLA really be separated? Zheng, Sasaki, and Gao say no, advocating for theoretical plurality guided by a humanistic orientation. Zheng et al. (2026). The Modern Language Journal. doi.org/10.1111/modl.7… #SLAinCrisis #MLJContentSeries

MLJ is on social media. For 110 years, The Modern Language Journal has published influential research on how languages are learned, taught, and used. Now, we're exploring new ways to share it. Follow on X and FB: facebook.com/profile.php?id… Please repost to spread the word!

Do we really need another crisis? Michel and Atkinson introduce the responses to Lantolf et al.'s commentary on the Synergies Project in SLA/T. Michel & Atkinson (2026). The Modern Language Journal. doi.org/10.1111/modl.7…

"SLA is in crisis!" Lantolf, Poehner, and Rieker diagnose horizontal, vertical, and diagonal ruptures in the field and call for a general theory to move forward. Lantolf et al. (2025). The Modern Language Journal. doi.org/10.1111/modl.7… #SLAinCrisis #MLJContentSeries

Is SLA really in crisis? Lantolf, Poehner, and Rieker (2025) say yes. Five responses push back. We'll share each one over the coming weeks. Follow us to stay tuned! #SLAinCrisis #MLJContentSeries

📣Great news: The NFMLTA is opening up a second round for grants! Visit nfmlta.org for details.

Can grammar instruction produce learning that lasts? Concept-based instruction with cognitive linguistics leads to sustained accuracy over time. Zhao & Lantolf (2026). MLJ. doi.org/10.1111/modl.7…

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Is language learning ever truly a solo act? This study says no, introducing "we-processes" to show how learners and teachers act conjointly. Atkinson et al. (2026). The Modern Language Journal. doi.org/10.1111/modl.7…

How do immigrant families defy systemic pressures toward English monolingualism? And why can only some families pull it off? Wang & Wang (2026). The Modern Language Journal. doi.org/10.1111/modl.7…

Does adding images and audio to text actually help L2 beginners understand what they read? This preregistered eye-tracking study says yes. Tytko, Hui, & Pandza (2026). The Modern Language Journal. doi.org/10.1111/modl.7…

MLJ goes to #AAAL2026! The EB gathered for dinner, and what a joy it was! Phil reflected on the journal's journey and future (missed you, Ali!). Amanda gave us a first look at new open science initiatives coming to MLJ. Great conversation, good food, even better company!

Is L2 motivation research in crisis? This article introduces identity-based motivation theory as a promising alternative to the L2 Motivational Self System theory. Strietholt (2026). The Modern Language Journal. doi.org/10.1111/modl.7…

How many French word families do you need to know to read with ~90% coverage? A new nuclear word list puts the number at 2,871. Cobb, Lindqvist, & Ramnäs (2026). The Modern Language Journal. doi.org/10.1111/modl.7…

Only 4.2% of world language teachers identify as Black. What structural barriers do they face, and how do they persist toward professional success? Austin, Raysor, & James (2026). The Modern Language Journal. doi.org/10.1111/modl.7…

Can EFL teachers become advocates for social justice? A 2-year action research project in Argentina shows how teachers shifted from focus-on-form to critical pedagogy. Banegas, San Martin, Sacchi, & Porto (2026). The Modern Language Journal. doi.org/10.1111/modl.7…

What happens when Latina/o bilingual teachers' linguistic practices are marginalized? They enact "utopian moments" by validating their hybrid identities. Fallas-Escobar, Ek, & Henderson (2026). The Modern Language Journal. doi.org/10.1111/modl.7…