DIGITAL LANGUAGE PORTRAITS IN MULTILINGUALISM RESEARCH

Previous studies that have utilized language portraits (LP) as the research method typically relied on crayons and blank papers to collect and analyze data on participants’ linguistic repertoire. However, with the increasing popularity of technology-enhanced research platforms, new paradigms for data collection and analysis have emerged utilizing digital technologies. In line with these emerging trends, this chapter proposes the incorporation of digital language portraits (DLP) as a research method for data collection and analysis in multilingualism and language education studies. To achieve this, we first review existing studies and discuss the limitations of the traditional crayon-paper-based LP method for data collection. Following this, we present a novel and digital-based data collection and analytical approach to LP leveraging the Online Collaborative Whiteboards (OCW) platform. We highlight the tangible advantages and potential challenges associated with the implementation of this technology-enhanced data collection and analysis method in small-or large-scale studies. Finally, we conclude the chapter by outlining future directions for multilingualism and education research that adopt these innovative research methods.