Theme: Global Currents, Local Voices: Applied Linguistics Across Asia

Date: 16-19, April 2026

Venue: City University of Macau, Macau SAR, China

Organizer: City University of Macau

Co-Organizer: Association of Applied Linguistics in Asia

1. Conference Significance and Aims

In an era of unprecedented globalization and digital transformation, the field of Applied Linguistics faces both new challenges and unique opportunities. Asia, as the world’s most populous and linguistically diverse continent, stands at the forefront of these dynamics. The interplay between global languages like English and the rich tapestry of local languages, cultures, and educational traditions in Asia creates a complex and fertile ground for research.

The First International Conference on Applied Linguistics in Asia (ICALA 2026) is established with the mission to create a premier academic platform for scholars, researchers, and practitioners worldwide, especially Asian applied linguists and language teachers. This conference aims to:

(1)   Foster Dialogue: Bridge the communication between leading international experts and emerging scholars within Asia, facilitating a cross-pollination of ideas and methodologies.

(2)  Showcase Innovation: Highlight cutting-edge research that addresses the specific linguistic and communicative needs, policies, and practices in Asian contexts.

(3)  Contextualize Theory: Explore how global theoretical frameworks in applied linguistics are adapted, challenged, and enriched by local Asian realities.

(4)  Build Community: Strengthen a collaborative network of applied linguists and language teachers dedicated to advancing knowledge and improving language education, policy, and technology across the region.

By gathering in the vibrant and culturally hybrid city of Macau, we hope to critically examine and celebrate the contributions of Asian applied linguistics to the global discourse, shaping the future of the field in a rapidly changing world.

2. Conference Structure

The conference will feature a diverse program consisting of:

(1)  Invited Keynote Speeches: Presented by distinguished experts from around the world and within Asia, focusing on specific sub-fields and emerging trends.

(2)  Plenary Speeches: Delivered by internationally renowned scholars who will provide broad perspectives on the field’s future.

(3)  Parallel Panel Sessions: Offering opportunities for researchers to present their original work, receive feedback, and engage in detailed discussions with peers.

3. Submission Guidelines

We cordially invite submissions for paper presentations on any topic related to Applied Linguistics, with a particular encouragement for research situated in or relevant to Asian contexts. Suggested topics include, but are not limited to:

(1)  Technology-enhanced Language Learning (TELL) and CALL

(2)  Second Language Acquisition and Foreign Language Teaching

(3)  Teaching Chinese as an International Language

(4)  Language Policy, Planning, and Education in Multilingual Asia

(5)  Applied Linguistics and Appliable Linguistics

(6)  Corpus Linguistics and Big Data in Language Research

(7)  Discourse Analysis, Critical Discourse Analysis, and Multimodality

(8)   Sociolinguistics and Language, Identity, and Power

(9)  Ecolinguistics and Harmonious Discourse Analysis

(10)  Intercultural Communication

(11)  Language Testing and Assessment

(12)   Translation and Interpreting Studies

(13)   Language Teacher Education and Professional Development

(14)   Psycholinguistics and Cognitive Linguistics

(15)   English for Academic/Specific Purposes (EAP/ESP)

Submission Procedure:

Abstract Requirements: Please submit an abstract of no more than 300 words in English, including the title, and 3-5 keywords.

Submission Portal: All abstracts must be submitted electronically via our online submission system, the system will be launched before end of Jan 2026.

Important Dates:

Abstract Submission Deadline: January 31, 2026

Notification of Acceptance: February 20, 2026

Early-Bird Registration Deadline: March 10, 2026

All submitted abstracts will undergo a double-blind peer-review process. Accepted papers will be scheduled for presentation in the parallel sessions.

4. Registration Fee

This fee covers access to all conference sessions, the conference program, a welcome reception, daily tea/coffee breaks, and a conference kit.

All travel and accommodation expenses are the responsibility of the participant. A list of recommended hotels with negotiated rates will be provided on the conference website in due course.

5. Prizes

Student Paper Awards: There will be around 20 prizes for students with a cash prize of MOP1000 and MOP500。

6. Confirmed Plenary & Keynote Speakers (To be announced)

We are in the process of confirming a list of esteemed plenary and keynote speakers from around the globe. Details will be announced on our conference website soon.

7. Venue and Contact

The conference will be held at the City University of Macau (Taipa Campus), a modern institution located in the unique cultural heritage site of Macau. Known for its blend of Chinese and Portuguese cultures, Macau provides a stimulating and picturesque environment for academic exchange.

For any inquiries, please contact the conference secretariat at: fhssconference@cityu.edu.mo

We look forward to welcoming you to the dynamic and inspiring city of Macau in April 2026!