Lakota: School hopes to keep Lakota language alive (fwd)

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Lakota: School hopes to keep Lakota language alive

By Mike Corpos
http://www.unpo.org/news_detail.php?arg=35&par=842

The Wakpala School is putting the finishing touches on implementing a
$400,000 government grant it hopes will help save a language from
extinction.

The grant, to promote bi-lingual learning, was used to create classroom
tools, mostly computer-based, to help students and teachers keep alive
the Lakota language.

They will begin using the tools when classes start in August.

Project Director Earl Bullhead said the school, located on the Standing
Rock Indian reservation, was able to develop a series of computer
graphics and interactive programs to assist in the learning and
preservation of the Lakota language and culture.

"We will have CD-ROMs available and students can work with them on the
computer screen," Bullhead said. "You click on a graphic and it tells
you the Lakota word with the pronunciation."

Bullhead said students will be quizzed on what they learn.

Teachers will also have access to the programs so they can learn the
language along with students. Written materials on Lakota are also part
of the programs.

Bullhead said the grant money has nearly all been spent on purchasing
and implementing the technology needed to develop the programs.

He said more money is needed to further improve the school's Lakota
curriculum.

"So much more needs to be done," he said. Bullhead said the school used
local people to help implement the programs instead of contracting
services from outside sources.

The school plans a public unveiling of the new technology and materials
at 2 p.m. Tuesday. That will include speakers and entertainment,
Bullhead said.

"It won't be the final product we'll show there, but it's close,"
Bullhead said. "We have some small details to take care of -
corrections and such. It's tedious, but it's worth it."

Bullhead said the most important thing in the whole program is that
students are able to retain their identity through learning Lakota.

"The grant was a very valuable experience - it helps promote awareness
of culture and language."

Source: Aberdeen News