Doing translingual autoethnography and duoethnography: a methods tutorial for applied linguistics researchers

Abstract

Recent discussions in translanguaging scholarship have called for researchers not only to investigate translanguaging as a phenomenon but also to reconsider the methodological assumptions underlying applied linguistics research. At the same time, reflexive approaches such as autoethnography and duoethnography have gained increasing prominence for examining multilingual identities, language ideologies, migration, teacher education, and professional experiences. Although an emerging body of scholarship has begun bringing translanguaging into dialogue with reflexive inquiry, comparatively less attention has been devoted to explicitly conceptualizing how translanguaging can function as a methodological orientation for reflexive inquiry. The present methods tutorial addresses this need by conceptualizing translingual autoethnography and duoethnography as complementary forms of reflexive inquiry. We propose a three-layered framework in which translanguaging functions as (1) a critical theoretical framework, (2) an epistemic and relational practice, and (3) a reflexive methodology. Building on this framework, we provide practical guidance for conducting translingual autoethnography and duoethnography, including considerations related to identifying a phenomenon of interest, generating reflexive data, engaging in iterative interpretation, representing knowledge translingually, and addressing methodological rigor and ethics. By integrating conceptual synthesis with practical guidance, this tutorial contributes to ongoing conversations about methodological innovation, reflexive inquiry, and multilingual knowledge production in applied linguistics.

The authors' abstract, as published at the source. Research Methods in Applied Linguistics, 2026 · DOI ↗