"... one wanted to have foreign language teaching on an academic basis."

The journal Fremdsprachen und Hochschule (FuH) as a mirror of the development of the 'Arbeitskreis der Sprachenzentren an Hochschulen' from 1970 to 1987

Abstract

Abstract:

This article outlines the origins of the academic journal Fremdsprachen und Hochschule
(FuH) and its development in the early phase of the Association of University Language Centres
(AKS) in Germany. It examines the decision-making processes regarding topics, formats and intended
target groups. The study uses a mixed-methods approach, based on a corpus of AKS texts
and documents and an expert interview.
The results show that academic publishing has been crucial in establishing the identity of the AKS
and how it has contributed significantly to establishing the association during its early years. By
publishing research-based professional reflections, concepts, studies and practical experiences,
FuH has taken a pioneering role in the field of language teaching research. It combines practical,
academic and language policy aspects for its main target group in language centres, and those
involved in university language teaching and beyond.