Grounded Theory in Applied Linguistics Research: A Practical Guide

In this revised and expanded second edition, Gregory Hadley unravels the often-tangled understanding among applied linguistics researchers regarding grounded theory, a widely recognized research methodology employed globally by social scientists, educators, and qualitative researchers.

This hands-on manual, specifically tailored for graduate students, supervisors, and researchers, not only clarifies the procedures and practical applications of grounded theory but also delves into the latest advancements, developments, and innovations in the field. The second edition offers a real-world guide that incorporates new techniques and approaches, thereby providing readers with a solid foundation and necessary skills to both effectively manage their field data and develop insightful theories with pedagogical implications for their learners. This book also offers effective strategies for explaining, justifying, and disseminating their theoretical insights to the applied linguistics community and beyond, making it a user-friendly resource for researchers in this dynamic domain. New activities and worksheets have been provided in order to lead readers toward higher levels of coding proficiency and mastery of the grounded theory method. This edition includes an expanded discussion on the importance of epistemology in qualitative research and a comprehensive exploration of contemporary grounded theories, and reveals some of the key strategies for the dissemination of grounded theory studies through conferences, papers, and monographs. Valuable insights and guidance are given for effectively communicating grounded theories within the confines of different venues. It will equip readers with the knowledge and skills required to excel in their grounded theory pursuits, and will provide insight as they navigate the ever-evolving landscape of grounded theory research.

By harnessing the potential of the grounded theory method, readers will learn how to contribute meaningful insights to the applied linguistics community and related fields. This practical guidebook will be an indispensable resource for students and academics in applied linguistics.

Gregory Hadley is Professor of Sociolinguistics at Niigata University and a Visiting Fellow at Oxford. He has authored key works on Grounded Theory and English language teaching, including Grounded Theory in Action and English for Academic Purposes in Neoliberal Universities.