Published online by Cambridge University Press: 23 August 2010
The Center for Applied Linguistics (CAL) is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to the application of research on language and culture to educational and societal concerns. Through its work in research, information dissemination, development of instructional materials and language tests, and professional development and technical assistance to schools, districts, and states, CAL serves as a liaison between the academic world of research and the practical world of language education and language-related concerns. CAL plays a leading role in articulating language- and culture-related issues that affect policy decisions; conducting research on language use, language learning, and effective teaching methods; and translating research into practical applications that help language learners succeed.