LINGUIST List 6.203

Mon 13 Feb 1995

FYI: Endangered languages, International Sign Linguistics Asso.

Editor for this issue: <>

Directory

1. Karl Teeter, Endangered languages
2. Alex Eulenberg, Endangered language info wanted
3. MILLER CHRISTOPHER, International Sign Linguistics Association

January and early February have brought a bonanza in relation to endangered
languages. First a series of seminars on the subject organized at MIT by
Jonathan Bobalijk and Rob Pensalfini, then, the weekend of Feb.3-5, a
conference held at Dartmouth College in New Hampshire with a side feature
of a classic New England blizzard -- a "nor'easter", the first of this
winter's season for us locals. These have helped lead to a very illuminating
discussion of the whole concept of "endangered languages" on the Endangered
Languages Forum: those interested can write majordomocoombs.anu.edu.au and
send the message:
subscribe endangered-languages-l your e-mail address
Happy Winter! Yours, Karl

Linguist listers! If you'd like to share your expert knowledge on the
subject of sustaining endangered languages, please contact:

 --------
Tracy Hanes
School of Journalism and Communication
Carleton University

Email address: thaneschat.carleton.ca
 ---------

...who is now writing an article on that subject.

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 ----- International Sign Linguistics Association (isla) -----

 Membership and subscription

**************************************************************************

The International Sign Linguistics Association was founded in 1986. The
aim of the organisation is to encourage and facilitate sign language
research throughout the world and to develop international co-operation
in the field of sign language studies.

Linguistic analysis of human sign languages began in earnest in the late
1950s and 1960s. Since then it has developed considerably to the extent
that original research is now being carried out in a wide range of
countries. Sign language research has a lot to tell us about the nature
of human languages: it may well provide crucial insights into the nature
and type of language universals, the processes of language acquisition,
the influence of medium on structure and many other topics. Sign
linguistics is also directly relevant to those within "mainstream"
linguistics.

Those involved in the field of sign linguistics research have benefited
considerably through the mutual support and interest of colleagues
elsewhere. Isla encourages the sharing of ideas, information and research
findings.

****************************************************************************

The International Sign Linguistics Association invites you to become a
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