Applied Computer Technology in Cree and Naskapi Language Programs (original) (raw)

2002, Language Learning & Technology

After an introduction to the parameters for the application of computer technology in Cree and Naskapi language programs, it will be shown that the deliberate and structured introduction of these technologies to indigenous language programs can facilitate indigenous language stabilization and development. Using first-hand accounts from within Cree and Naskapi language communities as case studies, both the successes and frustrations associated with computers for language work will be described, and recommendations made for the future use of computer technology in these projects. The nine communities of East Cree speakers, located in northwestern Quebec from the eastern coast of James Bay and Hudson's Bay inland, range in population from 300 to 3000. Although united both politically and administratively, these nine communities represent two distinct Cree dialects, with additional inter-community lexical and phonological variations. These Cree and Naskapi communities share not only related languages, but also similarities in culture, traditions, and physical environment. However, despite these similarities, the use of computer technology for language maintenance has taken a very different path within each group. In both areas Cree or Naskapi is the first language of all, including children. The primary second language is English, with some provision for French. Both Cree and Naskapi use similar syllabic orthographies. This use of syllabics has had a unique influence on the development of applied computer technology used in their language programs. SYLLABIC ORTHOGRAPHIC SYSTEM The orthographic system is based upon the syllabic system innovated by James Evans, a Methodist minister serving the Ojibwa and Cree in Ontario and Manitoba from the 1820's to the 1840's (Murdoch, 1981). Evans was an avid philologist whose desire for an easy-to-learn "shorthand" method of writing these Indian languages provided the initial framework of the syllabic writing system. In the fall of 1841, while lodged at Norway House in Manitoba, he produced, after planning and experimentation, the first syllabic chart and some hymns in Cree. After some relatively minor changes, syllabics became the basis of the writing systems used today by the Cree, Naskapi, Ojibwa, and Inuit.