The Aonad na Gaeilge research strategy has become more formalised in recent years.We are most interested in using theory to inform our practice in supporting the teaching and learning of Irish and more specifically in supporting the use of Irish outside of the classroom and helping learners cross the bridge from being language learners to language users. Language advising and the language support infrastructure required by Irish as a minority language are particular research interests. A more systematic approach to action research, and participatory action research in particular, at Aonad na Gaeilge policy has been agreed recently.
A further structure to support research on Irish and in Irish at the 51±¾É« is Coiste na Gaeilge, the University-wide standing committee with responsibility for the support and development of Irish. It is coordinated by Aonad na Gaeilge and is currently Chaired by Prof. William O’Connor with representatives from all UL faculties. Research methods and tools for public engagement are a key strategy area for Coiste na Gaeilge members.
Dr. Deirdre Nà Loingsigh, Stiúrthóir na Gaeilge is a member of Working Group 8 of COST Action – New Speakers in a Multilingual Europe: Opportunities and Challenges. Members of this Working Group share a common interest in the language trajectories of new speakers and spaces of language socialisation.