ABSTRACT
Chapter 4 looks at CofP-oriented research on language, gender and sexuality, focusing on studies that ask guiding questions at the level of discourse. Early research is reviewed, confirming that the verification of the presence and influence of communities of practice was robust, with some caveats. Limitations also emerge, revealing a need to consider other modes of belonging more carefully. Key recent insights re-confirm that simply participating in a community of practice’s activities does not ensure membership. Rather, being ‘at the table’ where localised practices are being negotiated is much more crucial. We also see that application of the CofP model can shed light on the local interpretation of social structure, making social justice interventions more targeted and realistic. I analyse some original data and explore the mobility of a classroom community of practice between online and offline, revealing that not all community practices negotiated offline remain relevant. The implications of this finding are explored in relation to the book’s themes.
