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
Literacy and education specialists work with local communities, government and non-government agencies and national institutions to establish mother tongue-based literacy and multilingual education programs for children, youth and adults who speak non-dominant languages.
Literacy and Education Technicians participate in literacy and education surveys, develop literacy and education materials, and train literacy and education teachers and authors, as part of an established language development team or under the supervision of a more senior Literacy and Education specialist.
Literacy and Education Technicians should have an undergraduate degree or equivalent experience. They should be able to show satisfactory performance in courses substantially similar to the following SIL standard courses:
In addition, they should have basic competency in software tools to for desktop publishing. Cross-cultural experience is helpful but not required.
Literacy and Education Specialists partner with communities and organizations to carry out literacy projects such as multilingual education and adult literacy. A specialist supervises program design, orthography development, writer's workshops, teacher training, materials development and distribution, and management training. Literacy and Education Specialists provide leadership and expertise for the planning and implementation of these projects.
Literacy and Education Specialists should have an undergraduate degree. They should be able to show satisfactory performance in courses substantially similar to the following SIL standard courses:
In addition, they should be competent in using advanced software for literacy tasks such as primer construction, shell book construction, and desktop publishing. They should be able to train others in literacy principles and techniques. Previous multicultural experience is helpful.
