Speech is the primary vehicle for communication. As speakers we recognize speech from our own communities or we identify individuals by how they speak because speakers are representatives of their communities. The process of writing down spoken word is important because it leaves a record for the future, but it can be difficult to do until you discover a method that you are comfortable with. Over a series of four days, we will discuss reasons why it is important to transcribe our speech. We will do a hands-on approach to writing what you hear. Participants will record and write out the Sun and the Wind Story in their language. The goal of this workshop is to find your method. In the process we will share existing databases of sounds, and discuss ideas on indigenizing phonetics. We will discuss the importance of sharing, collaborating, making our work accessible, and asking for help. Importantly, we will discuss how your work will be useful to future generations. This course will aim to keep this process as simple as possible so that participants of varying levels can fully participate.

Facilitation Team

Melvatha R. Chee & Joyce McDonough