Creative inquiry in applied linguistics : language, communication and the arts

In this chapter we consider what creative inquiry in applied linguistics is, how creative inquiry has been used in applied linguistics research and how it might extend our understandings of communication and language in relation to ‘real-world problems’ (Brumfit 1995: 27). We present a diverse body of applied linguistics research from a range of contexts which works with, into and through the arts in multiple ways. By considering these projects, broad-ranging in scope, in place and in questions, and grounded in different forms of arts practice, we ask what the relationship is between communication and creative arts and, importantly, what the affordances of this relationship might be for the field of applied linguistics. This chapter therefore offers an introductory discussion of work engaging with creative inquiry and sets out some theoretical considerations for this emerging body of research and practice.