Reimagining research ethics in applied linguistics and SLA

Abstract

This paper calls for a critical re-evaluation of research ethics in applied linguistics (AL) and second language acquisition (SLA) research, particularly concerning the ethical treatment of members of the disabled community. Historically, AL and SLA research has often perpetuated deficit views of disability by focusing on cognitive or affective differences. This paper examines the ethical implications of deficit-based research and tensions between institutional research policies and everyday ethical dilemmas through a disability justice lens. To address these gaps within the field, we propose an emancipatory, rights-based framework that fundamentally reimagines research ethics in AL and SLA by centering respect, representation and reciprocity, informed consent, privacy and confidentiality, and accessibility. Through a focus on disability rights and actionable guidelines, this framework seeks to dismantle systemic barriers in research ethics. It also highlights more equitable and inclusive research practices for disabled people and marginalized groups in AL and SLA research.