How the Inuit Approach Learning English

Introduction

The Inuit are indigenous people who inhabit the Arctic regions of Canada, Greenland, and Alaska. Their language, Inuktitut, is a complex and polysynthetic language, which means that words can have multiple meanings and can be composed of multiple morphemes. As English is the dominant language in many urban areas of the Arctic, the Inuit face many challenges when it comes to learning this new language. This article will explore the ways in which the Inuit approach learning English, and how this approach differs from traditional English-language learning methods.

Inuktitut is a Unique Language

Inuktitut is a unique language in many ways. For instance, the language has no grammatical gender or articles, and verbs can be used to express tense and mood. The Inuit have a deep respect for their language and culture and are committed to preserving them. Learning English, therefore, is not only necessary for economic and social reasons but also a potential threat to their language and culture.

The Importance of Cultural Understanding

Unlike traditional English-language learning methods, the Inuit approach to learning English emphasizes the importance of cultural understanding. Inuit educators believe that language cannot be separated from culture, and that in order to understand a language fully, one must first understand the culture that created it. For this reason, many Inuit schools teach English with a focus on Inuit culture and values. Students learn English through Inuit stories, songs, and traditional games.

The Role of Community

The Inuit approach to learning English also places a strong emphasis on community. In traditional Inuit culture, learning was a communal activity, and this approach has been carried over to English-language education. Schools and community members work together to create language-learning opportunities for Inuit students. For example, community members may organize language immersion camps or English-language reading groups. The Inuit believe that language learning is not only a personal endeavor but a communal one as well.

The Importance of Language Maintenance

Finally, the Inuit approach to learning English is often linked to the importance of maintaining their own language. Inuit educators believe that learning English is not simply about acquiring a new skill but also about learning how to navigate within a dominant culture that may not fully understand or appreciate Inuit culture. Learning English, then, is not only a way to create economic and social opportunities but also a way to maintain Inuit identity and language.

Conclusion

The Inuit approach to learning English is unique in many ways. Unlike traditional English-language learning methods, the Inuit approach emphasizes cultural understanding, community, and language maintenance. While learning English can be challenging for the Inuit, their commitment to learning and preserving their culture and language has made them a model for other indigenous language communities around the world.