Establishing linguistic norms: issues of diffusion, transmission and appropriation (New-Caledonia)
Résumé
This paper proposes to combine field experiences with Kanak language teachers in Ouvéa (Loyalty Islands, New-Caledonia/NC) and institutions in charge of linguistic and educational issues in NC. In particular, the presentations focuses on the issues surrounding the standardization of "oral tradition" languages and the resulting problems for educational stakeholders (Académie des langues kanak, 2020; Costa, 2021; Jones & Mooney, 2017; Sam, 2009; Shah, Sheena & Brenzinger, 2021; Vernaudon, 2009). While the promotion of indigenous languages is more than ever a hot topic (i.e. UNESCO's International Decade of Indigenous Languages 2022-2032), what are the conditions for a consensus to establish linguistic standards? Are they recognized by the concerned speakers and stakeholders? How are they transmitted? Finally, how do speakers acquire these standards? Our analyses are based on a critical observation of a Kanak language teacher training (iaai/fagauvea), on questionnaires and interviews with teachers and institutional stakeholders. We intend to understand the political, institutional and social dynamics at work in the process of legitimizing minority languages in NC, and to open the discussion to other Pacific contexts.
Loading...