Communities developing resources and competencies for using their languages
Foundational understanding for language development work of all kinds
Publications, fonts and computer tools for language development, translation and research
SIL offers training in disciplines relevant to sustainable language development.
7,105 languages are spoken or signed. CLICK for map of world languages & regional websites.
SIL's dedication to language development past and present
Effective planning for Media Development builds on an awareness of all of the communication resources of a community and leads to enhanced
Using locally appropriate language and communication forms leads to more effective development of media for clearer understanding, more creative artistic expression, and greater impact.
Media specialists in SIL work with local communities to help identify communication forms and technologies used by that community. Communication forms may include song, dance, chant, storytelling, narrative, poetry, drama… Communication technologies may include cassette, CD/VCD/DVD, radio, TV, cell phone, internet, and more. Effective media development encompasses both of these elements: information crafted in indigenous languages and forms together with distribution using media technology appropriate in the community.
Understanding the communication forms and technologies available to a community provides a basis for developing a media usage plan. Effective plans are developed by the community to address goals and felt needs by bringing together key sociolinguistic factors, communication forms and technology.
Most communities and societies include oral preference communicators -- those who will not learn to read or who choose not to read on a regular basis for whatever reason. By using appropriate local language media, all members of a community can be included in the development of their language and in the acquisition of new information.
Media specialists in SIL are also concerned with the documentation of communication resources of communities worldwide. Such documentation can strengthen a group’s sense of identity while providing a foundation for further language development.
