Linguistic Landscapes and Educational Spaces

This volume explores how written and other signs shape educational spaces and practices, and how they are shaped by these spaces and practices. It highlights the importance of combining empirical analyses of linguistic and semiotic landscapes with action research to promote multilingual equality.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 31 December 2021
Publisher: Multilingual Matters

This book explores the intricate relationship between written and other signs and their impact on educational spaces and practices. By building upon investigations into the linguistic landscapes of public spaces, it seeks to answer critical questions about how these signs are shaped by the educational environments they inhabit and, in turn, how they shape these environments. The studies presented in this volume address these issues, contributing to the ongoing educational turn in linguistic and semiotic landscapes studies.

Driven by social transformations linked to migration and superdiversity, as well as the urgent need to promote pluri- and multilingualism, the research gathered here resonates with scholars and practitioners in the fields of educational linguistics and educational sciences. These studies underscore the significance of integrating empirical analyses of linguistic and semiotic educational landscapes with action research aimed at harnessing linguistic landscapes as pedagogical resources to foster multilingual equality.

Written and other signs play a pivotal role in shaping educational spaces and practices. They convey messages, establish norms, and create a sense of identity and belonging within educational institutions. The language used in classrooms, textbooks, and signage can influence students' language acquisition, literacy skills, and cultural understanding. Moreover, signs and symbols used in educational settings can reflect and reinforce social hierarchies, power dynamics, and biases, perpetuating or challenging existing inequalities.

At the same time, educational spaces and practices also shape written and other signs. The design of classrooms, libraries, and learning environments can influence how students interact with written materials, communicate with peers, and engage in learning activities. The use of technology, such as digital tools and multimedia resources, can transform the way information is presented, accessed, and shared, shaping the ways in which students learn and communicate.

The relationship between written and other signs is dynamic and reciprocal. Signs and symbols used in educational settings can influence the development of language and literacy skills, as well as cultural understanding. Conversely, the educational experiences and practices of students can shape the meanings and uses of written and other signs. For example, students who engage in multilingual learning environments may develop a deeper appreciation for the diversity of languages and cultures, which can shape their attitudes and behaviors towards language and diversity.

In conclusion, this book explores the complex interplay between written and other signs and their impact on educational spaces and practices. By examining the ways in which these signs are shaped by and shape educational environments, it contributes to our understanding of the educational landscape and offers valuable insights for practitioners and policymakers seeking to create inclusive and equitable learning environments.

Weight: 478g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788923859