Mission and Values

The mission of the Center for Applied Linguistics (CAL) is to advance language learning and cultural understanding by serving as a trusted source for language research, policy analysis, and culturally and linguistically sustaining pedagogical resources. Through its work, CAL offers educational solutions that aim at supporting multilingualism, improving equitable access to education and advocating for language learning opportunities for all students. ​

CAL also has a set of core values that guide all of our endeavors and help us focus our efforts more effectively. These values are outlined below and reflect CAL’s strong commitment to promoting access, equity, and mutual understanding for linguistically and culturally diverse people around the world. 

• Languages and cultures are important individual and societal resources.
• All languages, dialects, and cultures deserve to be respected and cultivated.
• Multilingualism is beneficial for individuals and society.
• Effective language education should be widely available.
• Accurate information should be the basis for policies and practices that involve language and culture.
• Language skills and cultural knowledge should be valued in work situations.
• Language and cultural differences should not be obstacles to personal or group success or well-being.