Journal of English and Applied Linguistics
Department of English & Linguistics, University of Sri Jayewardenepura
Voices is a student-led, faculty-advised journal that showcases outstanding undergraduate work across English literature and applied linguistics. For submissions in literature, we welcome close readings and theory-driven analyses of poetry, drama, and fiction; comparative and cultural studies; postcolonial, feminist, and eco-critical approaches; and work on Sri Lankan, South Asian, and world literatures. For submissions in Linguistics, we publish research on language education, multilingualism, language policy, discourse/corpus studies, workplace communication, and technology-enhanced learning. All submissions undergo single-blind peer review, and there are no article processing charges.
Objectives
- Provide a platform for undergraduates to publish original academic work.
- Foster academic inquiry, critical thinking, and intellectual exchange.
- Encourage engagement with current issues in English, education, TESOL, and related fields.
- Showcase student voices to internal and external academic audiences
Editorial Board
- Editor-in-Chief: Dr Sujeeva Sebastian Pereira (Department of English & Linguistics, USJ)
- Student Editorial Board (roles rotate annually)
- Section Editors (3–4): Literature, Linguistics, TESOL, Opinion
- Copy Editors (2–3)
- Layout & Design Editor (1–2)
- Communications & Social Media Coordinator (1)
Student editors manage day-to-day editorial workflows; academic staff provide oversight and final approval.
Scope & Content
Each annual issue features:
- Student Research Essays (1,000–2,000 words) – Independent or course-based research in linguistics, literature, education, or TESOL.
- Position Papers (800–1,200 words) – A well-supported stance on a scholarly issue.
- Opinion Pieces (500–750 words) – Reflections or critiques on education, language, TESOL, or literary studies.
- Interviews / Student Conversations – Q&As with students or academics on relevant topics.
Publication Frequency
- Annual (Semester 1 or 2).
- Calls for submissions are issued 2–3 months before publication.
Submission & Review Process
- Eligibility: Open to all undergraduates in the Department of English & Linguistics (USJ).
- Submission model: Single-blind peer review with one reviewer
- Reviewer is anonymous; author identity is visible.
- Typical timeline: Initial decision within 3–4 weeks from the call deadline (varies by volume).
Format & Distribution
- Digital PDF edition hosted on the university website/LMS.
- Optional print for the department, library, and archives.
- Promotion via department website, social channels, and email newsletters.
Benefits to Students
- Early experience in academic publishing and peer review.
- CV-building for postgraduate study and academic careers.
- A sense of ownership and community within the department.
- Practical skills in research communication, editing, and production.