Challenges for language and identity researchers in the collection and transcription of spoken interaction

This chapter addresses the main issues faced by scholars in the field of applied linguistics and sociolinguistics when choosing, collecting and transcribing empirical data to investigate the relationship between language and identity. Having a clear definition of identity and of the role of language in its constitution is fundamental from the start, as this will shape research questions, and determine choice of data and methods of data generation. Different types of spoken data, such as naturally occurring talk-in-interaction, interviews or narratives, may be gathered, whether to be analysed on the own or in combination, but researchers must always reflexively consider the situated and interactively constructed nature of spoken data. The choice of transcription system, in turn, must be consistent with the theoretical approach adopted. Despite the intrinsic interpretive nature of the transcription process, researchers should ensure the accuracy, consistency and systematicity of their transcripts. Existing transcription systems/coding schemes may be used and, if necessary, adapted to the specific needs of the research project.