Ownership of Englishas a multi-linguafranca : Linguistic identity and innovation in online multilingual practice

Abstract: In recent years, some of the research within the field of English as a Lingua Franca (ELF) seems to have gone through a re-orientation, shifting focus from form to practice. This has highlighted the dynamic nature of languages and identities performed in interaction, leading to the conceptualization of ‘English as a multi-lingua franca’, which refers to placing emphasis on multilingualism in ELF interactions. While much of ELF research has favored in-person spoken interaction, the increasing presence of electronically mediated intercultural communication (EMIC) in society encourages a consideration of online communication as a setting for ELF usage. Online interactions veer between written and spoken communication, thus providing many ways for speakers to express their linguistic identities and show ownership of the language produced. As such, in this paper a temporary multilingual social configuration was observed with regards to participants’ linguistic behavior. Six participants were asked to engage in discussion throughout one week in an online group chat, with the aim of acquiring further insight into how linguistic identity is performed in relation to language ownership and linguistic innovation by ELF speakers within the context of an online environment. The EMIC data was supported by individual interviews that took place prior to the group discussion, and follow-up interviews after the chat had ended. Through a qualitative thematic analysis, the research questions were discussed in relation to the three main focal issues of the study, i.e., linguistic identity, language ownership and linguistic innovation. The findings are in line with recent research that indicate that ELF is a multilingual practice that is shaped by its speakers, as well as the specific context of the interaction.