What is the Documenting and Revitalising Indigenous Languages program?
The Documenting and Revitalizing Indigenous Languages (DRIL) Program has been created to support the long-term maintenance of Australian Aboriginal languages. DRIL offers a new training method to Aboriginal and Islander people in communities and organisations who want to develop, run and manage their own language projects. A PDF flyer can be downloaded here.
The people who take part in this program also learn to share their skills with other people in their own communities and organisations. In this way, more and more people will have the skills to develop and run their own language projects.
What will I learn in this program?
There are currently 29 different modules (or lessons) in the program, grouped into seven topics. You can choose any of the modules as a starting point, depending on your current interests. We will talk about your experience and interests with you before you start and might suggest that it would be helpful to take one or two other modules first as background to any particular topic.
Who can take part in this program?
The program is designed for Aboriginal people who want to do their own language work to strengthen their language. You can take part in the training just by yourself, or with other people in your family, a small group in your community, or in your workplace.
In 2010-2011, the program is being piloted in a small number of communities and organisations. From 2012, we plan to open the program for national participation.
Do I have to take all the modules?
No, you don't have to take all of the modules in the program or even all of the modules in any topic. A program will be designed specifically for you. Trainees can start at any point depending on your interests and the project you want to develop. You can choose modules as your skills build and your interests change.
What background skills or education do I need?
You don't need any previous experience or any special skills to take part in this program. We'll design a program with you based around your interests and experience.
Where does the program take place?
When you contact us to let us know you are interested in the program, we will talk with you about your interests and training needs. We will discuss where and when the training can take place. Usually, the training program will start with a short, intensive on-site workshop in your community or organisation. After the workshop, you will be given worksheets and supporting resources so that you can continue your learning and do the practical project-based exercises at home or at work. A follow-up on-site workshop will be held to talk about how your project is going and to get you started on the next steps.
What qualification will I get?
This program does not offer a formal qualification and it is therefore very flexible in the way that you learn. You will be given recognition for each module that you complete.
If and when you feel ready to continue your learning at a higher level and to study towards a formal qualification, we will work with you to look at the alternatives, find a place that meets your needs, and connect you with the people who can assist in the enrolment process.
How long does the program take?
It will vary from person to person. You decide when you start and there is no fixed time frame. You can fit the training around the other parts of your home and work life.
What support will I get?
The worksheets and supporting resources will be available on a dedicated page here on the Resource Network for Linguistic Diversity's web site. This means that the materials can be updated regularly to take into account new developments in the field.
You will become part of a network of people who are doing this program. We plan to build a dedicated online chat facility and you will be able to ask questions and share ideas with others in the network.
When you register for this program, we will try to identify a local or regional organisation or person who can give you occasional support with your language work. If you don't have access to a computer, we will work with you and your support organisation to make sure that you have access to the resources and materials.
Contact us
Please contact RNLD if you are interested in participating in this training program.