What is VALS-ASLA?

The association for applied linguistics in Switzerland, VALS-ASLA, promotes linguistics as the leading discipline of a communication-based culture. It links linguistics to related disciplines, science to practice, and research in Switzerland to the rest of the world. VALS/ASLA forms the Swiss section of the International Association of Applied Linguistics (AILA).

Forum for professional interaction and information
VALS-ASLA sees itself as a forum where professionals in the area of applied linguistics can interact and exchange information. It organizes conferences, facilitates contact, and encourages cooperation within Switzerland and beyond its borders.

Fostering linguistics
VALS-ASLA fosters the development of applied linguistics in Switzerland, deals with topics central to the Swiss language situation and language policy in Switzerland, and works with other interested groups and organizations. 

Nationally and internationally anchored
VALS-ASLA was founded in Schoss Waldegg by Solothurn in 1993 and is a registered association. It forms an independent section of the Swiss linguistics association SSG (Schweizerische Sprachwissenschaftliche Gesellschaft) and is a member of AILA (International Association of Applied Linguistics).