Methodological transparency in applied linguistics and its consequences for the quality and scope of research

Methodological transparency constitutes a central tenet of the open science movement that is sweeping across many disciplines. Drawing on the burgeoning meta-science that has investigated methodological practices in applied linguistics, particularly in the area of second language learning and teaching, this chapter outlines key characteristics of methodological transparency, focusing on the reporting and availability of materials, data, coding, and analysis procedures. The chapter summarizes empirical evidence about some of the negative consequences of a lack of methodological transparency, such as how it severely weakens our capacity to understand, evaluate, and replicate research. Whilst noting a number of important challenges ahead, the chapter highlights key practices and infrastructure that are now available to researchers, institutions, funders, and editors to promote a more collaborative, sustainable, and replicable research effort.