Lexicographic representation of barrier-free literacy and inclusive communication: current state and prospects

Dmytro Syzonov; Olha Danyleiko

doi:10.17721/APULTP.2026.52.35-49

Authors

Dmytro Syzonov Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv , The author is a member of the journal’s editorial board and therefore did not participate in the peer review process or in the decision-making regarding the publication of this article Author
Olha Danyleiko Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17721/APULTP.2026.52.35-49

Keywords:

barrier-free literacy, inclusive communication, linguistic ethics, contemporary lexicography, dictionary of inclusive communication, Barrier-Free Handbook.

Abstract

The article* examines the lexicographic representation of barrier free literacy and inclusive communication in the contemporary scholarly landscape. It aims to identify conceptual and structural gaps in current lexicographic practices and to propose a model for their systematic integration. The research employs comparative lexicographic analysis to evaluate leading international resources, including the Oxford and Cambridge dictionaries, Merriam-Webster, and Collins English Dictionary. These sources demonstrate a high degree of responsiveness to socio-cultural change through the documentation and standardisation of inclusion-related terminology and contextualised usage examples that enhance pragmatic and sociolinguistic awareness.
At the same time, the study demonstrates that, within the Ukrainian scholarly context, existing attempts to compile dictionaries and reference materials devoted to barrier-free literacy remain fragmented, insufficiently standardised, and limited in interdisciplinary scope and systemic coherence (including the Barrier Free Handbook and the Terminological Dictionary of Inclusive Education). The absence of a comprehensive lexicographic resource integrating linguistic, cultural, artistic, and media dimensions of inclusive communication highlights the need for further research in this field.
Within the framework of the research project "Barrier-Free Literacy and Inclusive Communication as Factors of Social Cohesion: Language, Literature, and Media," the study proposes the development of an innovative lexicographic model of inclusive communication incorporating intertextual references across literary texts, media discourse, and artistic practices. An English-language counterpart is also envisaged to facilitate the integration of Ukrainian scholarly experience into global academic discourse. Such a lexicographic resource is expected to promote inclusive communicative practices grounded in linguistic ethics, mutual respect, democratic values, and openness to inclusive social transformation.

* This article was prepared within the framework of the research project 26BF044-01M "Barrier-free literacy and inclusive communication as factors of social unity: language, literature, and media" with the support of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine

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