AUTONOMOUSLY RIDING GOOGLE MAPS TO TRAVEL TO ENGLISH SPEAKING COUNTRIES: LINGUISTIC LANDSCAPE

Abstract

All English Department students dream of visiting English-speaking countries. One reason is that they want to practice their English to communicate with native speakers in real situations and immerse themselves in an English-rich environment. However, only a small portion of students have the means and opportunity to do so. This paper demonstrates how Google Maps can help students virtually travel to English-speaking countries and improve their English linguistically, pragmatically, and interculturally. Languages, including English, are available in public spaces and make up the linguistic landscape of a territory or region. This linguistic landscape has potential for the teaching and learning of second and foreign languages. The linguistic elements of signs are creatively designed with clear, interesting, and fresh language that is easy to understand. They are valuable for learners seeking to improve their English.