Tracing Linguistic Threads: A Linguistic Landscape Study of Academic Institutions in Japan

Abstract

This study investigated the presence and usage of languages on the different signs within the Linguistic Landscape (LL) of academic institutions in Kagawa, Japan. A sequential explanatory quantitative-qualitative research design was employed to gather and analyze the data. It utilized three research instruments: a camera, an observation protocol, and the researcher as an instrument. Various data sets were incorporated to obtain meaningful findings, including photo analysis, registers, geographical information, content analysis, and discourse analysis. The study's findings revealed that the LL of academic institutions in Kagawa, Japan, predominantly features two languages: Japanese and English, with Japanese being dominant across various functions and intentions. Most signs are in monolingual Japanese, and none are in monolingual English. English texts were found as mere translations of Japanese texts. Additionally, it was observed that there were more topdown or government signs compared to bottom-up signs or private signs. These results shed light on the significance of language education, language planning, and policymaking in the prefecture. Understanding the use of language and types of signs in the LL provides valuable insights that can inform decisions aimed at promoting linguistic inclusivity and cultural diversity within educational spaces.