Melding language and image: Kaytetye Indigemoji as a language learning project

Abstract

ABSTRACT Purpose In recent years, digital projects have created tools for learning languages, such as mobile applications (apps). In contexts where the language has low prestige, innovative digital learning tools can support language revitalisation. This article takes the Australian Kaytetye Indigemoji app as a case study in community resource development. It aims to do two things: (1) show how resource development can be a vital forum for language teaching and learning; and (2) assess the affordances of digital images—fundamental to the Indigemoji app—for Indigenous language learning. Methodology Taking an ethnographic approach encompassing informal conversation and participant observation embedded in relevant literature, we analyse the community workshop where the Kaytetye Indigemoji app was developed. Findings We find that the development process can provide an essential language-learning activity. We also find that visual opportunities presented by the app harness existing multimodal practices in central Australian Indigenous communities, including symbolic art and a highly developed alternate sign language. We show that effective digital learning resources can be built through community development processes which engage with local learning methods. Value This research identifies how digital resource development can be harnessed to be maximally useful for Indigenous language learning in a small and relatively disadvantaged area in Australia.