Linguistics training at the University of North Dakota: Engaging with signed and spoken languages (August 2012) Students and faculty recently completed the sixty-first summer of SIL linguistics courses at the University of North Dakota. While the annual summer session is only nine weeks long, that time is packed with learning opportunities. Students engage with a variety of topics in linguistics and gain practical skill in the art of learning a new language. As with other SIL training programs in locations around the world, SIL-UND courses are intensely practical and geared to students who are preparing for involvement in language development. Read more about Linguistics training at the University of North Dakota: Engaging with signed and spoken languages
Understanding Language Choices: A Guide to Sociolinguistic Assessment (August 2012) What are the deciding factors that influence individuals and communities to choose one language over another? Co-authors Ken Decker and John Grummitt explore this topic in a new book entitled Understanding Language Choices, recently released by SIL International Publications. Read more about Understanding Language Choices: A Guide to Sociolinguistic Assessment
Culture and communication in the Kewa language of Papua New Guinea (July 2012) A study co-authored by SIL International Anthropology Consultant Dr. Karl Franklin and his daughter, Dr. Karol Hardin of Baylor University, was published in the latest issue of the journal Oceanic Linguistics (Vol. 51, June 2012). “Complaints in Kewa Letters” provides insight into the language and culture of the Kewa community of Papua New Guinea (PNG). Read more about Culture and communication in the Kewa language of Papua New Guinea
National Geographic focuses on endangered languages (June 2012) Many of the world’s smaller language communities exist on the margins. Some are fading; others strive valiantly to hold onto their cultural heritage and the language that embodies it. Through stories and a gallery of quotes and photos, “Vanishing Voices,” an article in the July issue of National Geographic, introduces readers to several communities and some of the unique contributions they make to the mosaic of world cultures. Read more about National Geographic focuses on endangered languages
12th International Conference on Austronesian Linguistics hosted in Indonesia (July 2012) The 12th International Conference on Austronesian Linguistics (12-ICAL), co-organized by the Australian National University, MPI-EVA Leipzig and Udayana University was hosted at Udayana’s campus in Bali, Indonesia, 2-6 July. Held every three to four years, this conference draws Austronesianists from around the world. Read more about 12th International Conference on Austronesian Linguistics hosted in Indonesia
