• Home

• Help / FAQ
• Contact

•  

COURSE INFORMATION

Dynamics of Indigenous Language Shift

LING 180A (1.5 Units)

Effective approaches to language revitalization begin with an understanding of the context of language shift and loss. This course provides an introduction to the human dynamics associated with Aboriginal language shift and language loss, including the profound psychological, intellectual, and spiritual effects on individuals, families, communities, and cultures.

Topics covered include:

• issues of language endangerment
• an exploration of the cultural wealth held by language
• language and culture – are they distinct?
• the effects of politics and economic factors on language survival
• effects of language loss on identity
• roles of elders, speakers and leaders in maintaining languages

Learning Outcomes

Through participation in this course you will gain an understanding of:

• the cultural dynamics surrounding language loss in British Columbia and beyond
• the state of Indigenous languages and minority languages of the world and the cultural and linguistic wealth they represent.
• the links between healthy languages, healthy communities, and healthy individuals. 
• the social, political and psychological dynamics that influence language revival in Aboriginal communities.
• language revitalization as potentially life-changing and community-changing work.

Formerly part of LING 180. Completion of this course prior to taking LING180B is recommended, or permission of the instructor.

---

Go Back

• Proceed to Registration Form

Messages