¹University of Glamorgan, Glamorgan, UK

Correspondence: J Wyburn, University of Glamorgan, Treforest, Pontypridd, Glamorgan, CF37 1OL, UK. E-mail: jwyburn@glam.ac.uk

Received July 2006; Accepted December 2007; Published online 23 April 2008.

Abstract

OR methodology is applied to the contemporary concern of modelling language group interaction, with a view to language planning. The change in size of two unilingual language groups, and of a third bilingual population mediating the interaction of these, is modelled using system dynamics. The model is one of highest possible endogeneity, with the minimum of external intervention in modelling runs. The model is applied to the instances of modern Canada excluding Quebec, Quebec, all Canada and Wales, and conclusions drawn regarding the use of the model in determining language planning initiatives.