The Role of Cultural Instruction in Adult Indigenous Language Learning

Abstract

As one of the Calls to Action by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada, the TRC demanded that the Canadian government fund language revitalization and preservation programs, including language courses at the postsecondary level. The demand for funding of language revitalization programs has, in turn, augmented the drive for Indigenous language revitalization (ILR) programs in communities and educational institutions, which results in a need for instructional programs. This article presents a review of the literature on Indigenous language instruction coupled with instruction in Indigenous cultural concepts among Indigenous adult learners of Anishinaabemowin: in particular, the focus is on learning gains when a component of cultural instruction is added to Indigenous language instruction to Indigenous adults. This review of literature highlights a gap in the research on adult Indigenous language learning and cultural teachings in the field of adult Indigenous language teaching. Additional research on this topic would contribute to the revitalization of Indigenous languages and contribute to fulfilling Calls to Action 13, 14, and 15 of the Truth and Reconciliation Committee. Addressing this gap in the research would advance knowledge about the role of cultural instruction in Indigenous language learning, which is useful for ILR curriculum planners and instructors.