Social representations of multilingualism

Representations of multilingualism circulate in everyday life and are constructed through and in social interaction, regardless of the degree of multilingualism in the environment. Representations of multilingualism are also anchored in lived everyday experiences and exchanges, and are related to the social contexts and expectations where individuals live. This means that representations of multilingualism are socially constructed and situated in time and space. This chapter discusses current research topics and strategies on representations of multilingual repertories, and language education in school and in the community by students and teachers.