Center for Applied Linguistics

The Center for Applied Linguistics (CAL) embarked on its journey in 1959, a period marked by a burgeoning global interest in language diversity and policy, and the rise of English as a world language. The launch of Sputnik had also spurred concerns in the United States about educational capabilities in critical areas, including foreign languages. It was in this dynamic environment that Dr. Charles A. Ferguson, a luminary in the field of applied linguistics, founded CAL. With initial funding from the Ford Foundation through the Modern Language Association, CAL was conceived as a vital bridge, connecting the academic realm of linguistics with the practical necessities of language education and related societal concerns. The organization was established with a clear mandate: to enhance the teaching of English globally, to champion the instruction and learning of less commonly taught languages, and to expand the knowledge base of the field by conducting research aimed at solving social and educational challenges related to language. Furthermore, CAL was envisioned as a central clearinghouse for the collection, analysis, and dissemination of information, acting as a coordinating body to unite scholars and practitioners in the language domain.

Over the decades, CAL has solidified its international reputation through significant contributions across a wide spectrum of language-related fields. These include bilingual and dual language education, English as a Second Language (ESL), world languages education, language policy, assessment, immigrant and refugee integration, literacy, dialect studies, and the education of linguistically and culturally diverse populations, both adult and children. CAL's dedicated team of researchers, language scholars, and seasoned practitioners, many of whom are recognized leaders in their respective areas, drive the organization's mission. They conduct vital research, design and develop innovative language assessments and instructional materials, offer technical assistance and professional development, and broadly disseminate information and resources. CAL's enduring commitment is to promote language learning and cultural understanding, serving as a trusted and authoritative source for research, resources, and policy analysis. Through its multifaceted work, CAL continually seeks to provide solutions to complex issues where language and culture intersect with access and equity in education and society on a global scale.