Why Researchers Choose Language Learning for High-Impact Publications
Language Learning stands as a cornerstone in the field of applied linguistics and second language acquisition, offering researchers a platform to disseminate groundbreaking work on how languages are learned and taught. Established in 1950, this Wiley-Blackwell publication has evolved into one of the most respected journals, attracting contributions from global scholars in education, psychology, and cognitive science. Its commitment to empirical research and theoretical innovation ensures that articles published here influence classroom practices, policy decisions, and further academic inquiry.
The journal's scope encompasses a wide array of topics, from bilingualism and multilingualism to the cognitive processes underlying language development. Researchers value Language Learning for its interdisciplinary approach, bridging education with neuroscience and sociolinguistics. With a rigorous double-blind peer-review process, submissions undergo thorough evaluation by leading experts, enhancing the quality and credibility of accepted manuscripts. The journal's high citation rates reflect its role in shaping the discourse on language pedagogy and acquisition theories.
For those in academia, publishing in Language Learning opens doors to collaborations and funding opportunities. Its inclusion in top indexing services like Web of Science and Scopus amplifies discoverability. Whether exploring immersion techniques or digital language tools, contributors find a receptive audience eager for evidence-based insights. As the demand for multilingual education grows, this journal remains pivotal in addressing real-world challenges.
To elevate your research profile, consider submitting to Language Learning and connecting with linguistics faculty jobs for career advancement.
Overview & History
Language Learning was founded in 1950 by the Language Learning Research Club at the University of Michigan, initially focusing on practical aspects of foreign language teaching. Over decades, it has expanded to cover theoretical and experimental studies in second language acquisition. Published by Wiley-Blackwell since 2007, the journal transitioned to quarterly issues, maintaining its reputation for scholarly excellence. Key milestones include the introduction of special issues on emerging topics like technology in language learning and the integration of neuroimaging in acquisition research. Today, it serves as a vital resource for educators and linguists worldwide, with a circulation that reaches thousands of institutions.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The journal welcomes manuscripts on all facets of language learning, emphasizing empirical evidence and methodological rigor. Primary areas include second language acquisition processes, instructional methodologies, and individual differences in learners.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Applied Linguistics | Studies on language teaching methods and curriculum design. |
| Education | Pedagogical approaches in multilingual classrooms. |
| Cognitive Science | Cognitive mechanisms in language processing and acquisition. |
| Psychology | Learner motivation, aptitude, and affective factors. |
| Sociolinguistics | Social contexts of language use and bilingualism. |
Key Journal Metrics
Language Learning boasts impressive metrics that underscore its influence in the academic community. These figures are sourced from Clarivate Journal Citation Reports and Scopus.
| Metric | Value | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor | 5.276 | 2023 |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 6.024 | 2023 |
| CiteScore | 8.7 | 2023 |
| SJR | 2.456 | 2023 |
| h-Index | 142 | 2023 |
Indexing and Abstracting
Articles in Language Learning are indexed in major databases, ensuring broad accessibility. Key services include Web of Science (Arts & Humanities Citation Index, Social Sciences Citation Index), Scopus, ERIC, PsycINFO, and Linguistics and Language Behavior Abstracts (LLBA). This coverage facilitates citations and interdisciplinary reach, with full-text availability via Wiley Online Library.
Publication Model and Fees
Language Learning operates on a hybrid model, allowing authors to publish open access or traditionally. The standard subscription model provides free access to subscribers, while open access incurs an Article Processing Charge (APC) of $3,600 (as of 2024). No page charges apply for non-OA articles. Wiley offers discounts for corresponding authors from low-income countries through Research4Life initiatives. Authors retain copyright under a Creative Commons license for OA publications.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are handled through ScholarOne Manuscripts portal. Manuscripts should be original, unpublished work, formatted in APA style, with a maximum of 10,000 words. Include an abstract (150-200 words), keywords, and anonymized files for blind review. The process involves initial editorial screening, followed by 2-3 peer reviews, typically taking 3-6 months. Ethical guidelines adhere to COPE standards, requiring disclosure of conflicts and data availability statements.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial team comprises renowned scholars. Editor-in-Chief Emma Marsden (University of York) oversees content strategy, supported by Associate Editors like Roumyana Slabakova (University of Southampton) and Junko Yamashita (Waseda University). The board includes 20+ international members from institutions such as Harvard, UCL, and the Max Planck Institute, ensuring diverse expertise in acquisition theories and methodologies.
Why Publish in Language Learning?
Publishing here offers visibility among top linguists and educators, with articles often cited in policy reports and textbooks. The journal's focus on innovative research attracts funding bodies, and its global readership enhances networking. High rejection rates (around 80%) signify selectivity, boosting CV value for tenure-track positions. Explore professor ratings to connect with peers.
Comparison with Similar Journals
Language Learning compares favorably to peers in applied linguistics.
| Journal | Impact Factor (2023) | Publisher | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studies in Second Language Acquisition | 3.567 | Cambridge University Press | Experimental SLA research |
| Modern Language Journal | 4.021 | Wiley | Language teaching and learning |
| Applied Linguistics | 5.012 | Oxford University Press | Theory and practice in linguistics |
| Language Teaching Research | 3.234 | SAGE | Pedagogical interventions |
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed, align your work with the journal's emphasis on replicable findings and theoretical contributions. Use mixed methods where appropriate, and ensure clear implications for practice. Engage with recent issues for trends, and seek pre-submission feedback from colleagues. Track your manuscript status via the portal, and prepare for revisions by addressing reviewer comments thoroughly. For academic planning, check the academic calendar. Additional tips include incorporating learner diversity and leveraging open data repositories.