Citation practices in applied linguistics: A comparative study of Korean master's theses and research articles

This study explores the complex interplay between citation forms and functions within 26 Korean master's theses and 30 research articles in applied linguistics. By extending the analytical boundaries of previous studies, this research examines a broader spectrum of citation patterns by adopting move analysis in specific sections within the Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion (IMRD) framework. The results show that experts predominantly employed non-integral citations with non-human subjects, indicating a sophisticated approach to research synthesis. Student writers commonly utilized integral citations with human subjects, focusing on individual studies. This article further delves into the intricate rhetorical progressions of citation functions within the introduction and discussion sections across the data through various moves in each section. These findings illuminate the multifaceted layers of citation practices within specific disciplinary contexts and subsections of academic writing, offering valuable insights into scholarly discourse. Additionally, the study provides practical pedagogical applications for English academic writing for second language graduate students. (155 words)