Linguistic diversity in Aveiro, Portugal: exploring linguistic landscape methodologies in the «Beira Mar» neighborhood

Abstract

The present exploratory study aims to reflect upon some aspects of the linguist diversity within the linguistic landscape of a Portuguese city (Aveiro). We will first present some of the most common choices, debates and innovative approaches concerning research methodologies in linguistic landscape studies. Secondly, we will present the analysis of the linguistic diversity displayed in the linguistic landscape of the « Beira Mar» neighborhood of Aveiro. The analysis shows that English is the foreign language with the greatest presence in all areas of activity and in monolingual, bilingual and multilingual signs. Within the results we also discuss the choices that were made and the impact of inclusion/exclusion criteria assumed in this exploratory study.