Linguistic diversity, understood as the coexistence of different languages (e.g., national and regional), language varieties (e.g., standard variants, dialects, and slang forms), modalities (e.g., spoken language, sign language, written language), and registers (e.g., language used by experts in specific fields), is a defining feature of differentiated societies. Due to migration, globalization and new (communication) technologies, the diversity of populations has increased tremendously. 

Literacy, which describes the ability to understand and actively use the different types, modalities or variants of language within a linguistically diverse context, is a prerequisite to actively participate in and sustainably shape society. Education and educational institutions are responsible to develop and promote literacy.  
In line with this, the research center LiDS (profile initiative of Universität Hamburg) investigates:

"How can sustainable language education be achieved in the context of diversity?"

In accordance with the concept of lifelong learning, it covers (basic) education from early childhood to adulthood. This objective is pursued in 3 core research areas.