An Annotated Bibliography of Language Documentation (original) (raw)

Since the development of language documentation as a separate sub-field of Linguistics is relatively new, there are only a few reference works that deal with theoretical and practical issues. Gippert et al. 2006 covers definitional concepts, and the practicalities of data collection, analysis and archiving. Many of the authors are researchers associated with the DOBES (Documentation of Endangered Languages) program funded by the Volkswagen Foundation. Chapters vary in complexity but most will be useful for beginning researchers. A Spanish translation of the volume is available. Gippert et al. 2006 is critically reviewed by Evans 2008, who argues that the approach it takes, which excludes grammar writing, is detrimental to the field. Austin 2010 is a series of lectures from the 3L Summer School 2009 and is aimed at beginning students. Grenoble and Furbee 2010 originated in discussions at a series of meetings of concerned researchers in 2004-2006, and a conference at Harvard University in 2005. It addresses praxis and values in documentation, measures of documentary adequacy, technologies, collaboration models, and training needs. Its audience is more advanced practitioners. Austin and Sallabank 2011 deals with a wide range of endangered languages issues and is intended for students; Part II and Part IV of the book have seven chapters on language documentation. The edited series Language Documentation and Description, published since 2003 by the Hans Rausing Endangered Languages Project at SOAS, University of London, contains articles on language documentation theory and practice, mostly arising from workshops organized by the project. Austin, Peter K. Language Documentation and Description, Volume 7. London : SOAS, 2010.