Language Acquisition

A majority of research on language in Nothern Ireland (NI) has focused on deepening our understanding of the history and contemporary diversity of the languages and dialects spoken by the major ethnic groups (Roman Catholics and Protestants). There have been heated debates surrounding the linguistic heritages of these communities (Irish Gaelic and Ulster Scots) and the scholarly focus reflects aspects of the social conflict endured by its population for much of the twentieth century.