Study title

A mixed methods approach was adopted, with the project undertaking qualitative interviews and a questionnaire survey. The interviews were conducted with policy-makers, teachers and young people in both Wales and Scotland. These focused on the link between education, minority languages and identity in both countries. Key themes include the use of minority languages in different settings (Welsh and Scots Gaelic), as well as the institutional support provided for the use of these languages by the schools. The interviews also address the link between minority language use and identity, as well as broader connections with other practices, including volunteering. This project investigated the types of civic participation and conceptions of language and identity promoted within the statutory education system, and within civil society organisations working with young people. The research took place in both Wales and Scotland. The questionnaire survey was conducted across a series of schools in Wales, focusing on the link between education, minority languages and identity. Key themes include the use of minority languages in different settings, the link between minority language use and identity, as well as broader connections with other practices, including volunteering.This proposal is for a National Research Centre (WISERD/Civil Society) to undertake a five year programme of policy relevant research addressing Civil Society in Wales. Established in 2008, WISERD provides an 'All-Wales' focus for research and has had a major impact on the quantity and quality of social science research undertaken in Wales. As part of WISERD, WISERD/Civil Society will enable this work to be deepened and sustained through a focused research programme that further develops our research expertise, intensifies our policy impact and knowledge exchange work and strengthens our research capacity and career development activities. WISERD/Civil Society will therefore aim to develop key aspects of...