Three students have won the EFNIL award for their excellent research in language studies.
Joana Pena-Tarradelles from Universitat Pompeu Fabra in Barcelona was recognized for her thesis, “Are Coercive Language Policies Fair? A Normative Approach Building on the Multilingual Convergence Model.” Her work looks at how to protect minority languages in Europe, suggesting new ways to ensure fairness between different language groups.
Lisza-Sophie Neumeier from the University of Vienna was honored for her thesis titled “The Role of English in Young Adults’ Lives in Austria: Second language engagement & enjoyment.” She studied how young Austrians use and enjoy English in their daily lives, both socially and professionally. Her research gives new insights into informal language learning.
Welmoed Sjoerdstra from the University of Groningen won for her thesis, “How to Teach Frisian in the Current Curriculum: Differentiation in the Frisian Course in the First Years of Secondary Education.” Her work focuses on how Frisian is taught in schools and suggests new methods to improve language lessons.
All three students contributed valuable research on language and education in Europe, supporting EFNIL’s goal of promoting multilingualism. The winners presented their thesis at EFNIL’s 21st conference in Budapest and their research is available on our website.
(Photo: Ari Páll Kristinsson)