Native Languages Center
About Us
Strategic Directions
The AIHEC National Tribal Colleges & Universities (TCU) Center of Excellence on Native Languages is guided by four strategic directions that address the resources that are needed to maintain thriving language programs; sharing of best practices in developing new materials for program sustainability; supporting TCU development curriculum, standards, and assessment; and understanding Native language revitalization within a larger ecosystem.
Building skills and capacity for language documentation, digital technology, and development of language materials
Building skills and capacity for teacher training, and curriculum development
Addressing Native language revitalization within the larger community
Native language outreach and policy development
Where It All Began
AIHEC’s Native Languages Initiative began in 2019 with a discovery project to survey TCU Native language programs. AIHEC worked with TCU faculty and administrators to map resources, identify needs, inventory best practices and focus on successful models used in Native language teaching and revitalization. Through this process, a national strategy and action plan were developed and implemented that focused on capacity building and leveraging resources in Native language teaching and preservation. Through the initial project, a clear focus emerged for increased need and development in teacher training, curriculum and materials development, capacity building in language documentation and technology, a community of practice, and continued policy development.
Community of Practice
The Community of Practice brings together TCU Native language faculty, staff, and other partners to share information about their language programs. Language work can sometimes feel isolating and creating safe spaces to share our work, learn from others, network and build partnerships is necessary. The development of the Community of Practice is done through various outlets such as the annual TCU Native Languages Summit, virtual meetings, updates through the Native language website and other media outlets, and connecting to other communities or organizations doing the work.
Language, Teaching, and Technology
The AIHEC National TCU Center of Excellence on Native Languages continues to increase capacity for teacher training and curriculum development, and language documentation and technology. Infrastructure, applied resources, and implementation models will be developed through partnership and leadership from TCUs already recognized for work in these domains. Work in this area also includes development of professional and workforce opportunities with TCU and Tribal language programs. Creating pathways, skills-building, and opportunities for Tribal members strengthens sovereignty and sustainability for the long term.
Native Language Policy and Action
The AIHEC National TCU Center of Excellence on Native Languages continues to contribute to the narrative of language revitalization through outreach and connection with other national, federal, and Tribal organizations doing language work. AIHEC continues to develop policy and educate decision makers on the national level regarding the need to support Native language programs.
Vision
AIHEC is committed to reclaiming the words of our ancestors. Our languages, our cultures, and traditions are our identity as Native peoples and connect the past with the future.
Mission
To build TCU and Tribal community capacity and to implement and continuously improve a Tribal Native Language Revitalization Strategy.
Goals
To establish a networked, vibrant Community of Practice among TCU Native language faculty and staff, researchers, and partners; and ensure that TCU language programs have the infrastructure needed to thrive.