Effects of indigenous language conversation skills enhancement program among Bukidnon and Talaandig youths in the Philippines

Abstract

The gradual annihilation of indigenous peoples' languages significantly affects their identity and culture. With this concern in mind, our study aimed to improve the Binukid language conversation skills of the Bukidnon and Talaandig youths in Barangay X, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. We conducted a needs assessment analysis, finalized training topics and materials, administered training sessions, and monitored and evaluated our participants' communicative performance together with the Central Mindanao University extension director, tribal leaders, IP representative, and village officials. We chose the participants using complete enumeration; however, some enlisted participants were not available because of work, academic tasks, and other personal reasons. We collected relevant data through needs assessment, in-depth interviews, and extensive deliberations to create language training materials. We also used ethnographic methods to document and examine the participants' usage of their native language. The findings revealed that five out of six aspects of the participants’ conversation skills improved one step higher from the pre-training to the post-training, including accuracy of basic grammar structures, fluidity, basic elements of native pronunciation, variety of vocabulary, and comprehensible communication with limited errors. One criterion, however, specifically the participants' ability to deploy relevant, accurate, and thorough manner of conversing on a specific theme or topic remained constant. This research shows that collaborative and informed measures to reintroduce an indigenous language can be successful, thereby contributing to preservation of linguistic diversity.

Keywords

• Barangay X
• Malaybalay City
• Binukid language
• Bukidnon
• Conversation skills
• Indigenous language