The Routledge Handbook of Applied Linguistics, published in 2011, has long been a standard introduction and essential reference point to the broad interdisciplinary field of applied linguistics.

Reflecting the growth and widening scope of applied linguistics, this new edition thoroughly updates and expands coverage. It includes 27 new chapters, now consists of two complementary volumes, and covers a wide range of topics from a variety of perspectives. Volume One is organized into two sections – ‘Language learning and language education’ and ‘Key areas and approaches in applied linguistics’ – and Volume Two also has two sections – ‘Applied linguistics in society’ and ‘Broadening horizons’.

Each volume includes 30 chapters written by specialists from around the world. Each chapter provides an overview of the history of the topic, the main current issues, recommendations for practice, and possible future trajectories. Where appropriate, authors discuss the impact and use of new research methods in the area. Suggestions for further reading and cross-references are provided with every chapter.

The Routledge Handbook of Applied Linguistics remains the authoritative overview to this dynamic field and essential reading for advanced undergraduate and postgraduate students, scholars, and researchers of applied linguistics.

Li Wei is Director and Dean of the UCL Institute of Education at University College London, UK, where he is also Chair of Applied Linguistics. He is Editor of International Journal of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism and Applied Linguistics Review. He is Fellow of the British Academy, Academia Europaea, Academy of Social Sciences (UK), and Royal Society of Arts (UK).

Zhu Hua is Professor of Language Learning and Intercultural Communication and Director of the International Centre for Intercultural Studies at University College London, UK. She is an elected Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences (UK) and an elected Fellow and board member of the International Academy for Intercultural Research. She is Chair of the British Association for Applied Linguistics (BAAL), 2021–2024.

James Simpson is Professor in the Division of Humanities at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. He is the Director of the MA programme in International Language Education. He was formerly in the School of Education, University of Leeds, UK.