The Cherokee Nation, a sovereign tribal nation located primarily in northeastern Oklahoma, is continuing its commitment to preserving and revitalizing the Cherokee language by offering online language courses. Beginning January 7th, the tribe will make available a comprehensive Cherokee language program accessible through its official website, cherokee.org. This initiative marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to ensure the survival of the language for future generations.
The program isn’t new. The Cherokee Nation has been at the forefront of language preservation through online education since 2003. For nearly two decades, the tribe has recognized the power of the internet to reach a wider audience and provide a flexible learning environment for individuals interested in learning the Cherokee language, regardless of their geographical location. The Cherokee Nation to offer online language course has consistently drawn significant interest.
The online language program has proven remarkably popular, attracting approximately 1,000 students each session. The reach of the program extends far beyond the borders of the United States. Individuals from diverse corners of the globe, including France, Australia, Spain, Mexico, Germany, and Canada, have actively participated in these courses, underscoring the global appeal and the enduring interest in the Cherokee language and culture. This diverse student body highlights the importance of making language learning resources accessible online.
Registration for the upcoming session commenced on Monday. The course, designed to provide a structured and immersive learning experience, will span ten weeks. As part of the Cherokee Nation’s dedication to making language accessible to all, the online courses are offered free of charge to the public. This commitment removes financial barriers and encourages participation from individuals of all backgrounds who are passionate about learning the Cherokee language.
The curriculum is structured to cater to different levels of proficiency, with courses offered in Cherokee I, Cherokee II, and Cherokee III. Cherokee I serves as an introductory course, providing a foundation in the basics of the language, including pronunciation, grammar, and basic vocabulary. Cherokee II builds upon the knowledge gained in the first course, delving deeper into grammatical structures and introducing more complex vocabulary and conversational phrases. Cherokee III is designed for more advanced learners, focusing on fluency, cultural nuances, and the ability to engage in meaningful conversations. The progressive structure allows students to gradually build their skills and confidence as they advance through the program.
Recognizing the importance of creating an engaging and user-friendly learning experience, the Cherokee Nation has invested in upgrading the software used to deliver the online language classes. These improvements are designed to enhance interactivity, accessibility, and overall user experience. This year, the Cherokee Nation to offer online language course has improved its online services.
The updated software incorporates several key features designed to optimize the learning experience. One significant enhancement is the increased capacity, which allows for a greater number of students to participate in the live classes. This ensures that more individuals can benefit from the program and interact with instructors and fellow students in real-time. The new system also features easier login capabilities, streamlining the process for students to access the online platform and begin their learning journey. This reduces frustration and ensures that students can quickly and easily participate in the classes.
Another notable improvement is the addition of a full-screen option, providing a more immersive and visually engaging learning environment. The larger display allows students to better view the course materials, including text, images, and videos, and to focus their attention on the lesson. The updated software also includes archiving abilities, allowing students to access recordings of previous classes. This feature is particularly valuable for students who may have missed a live session or who wish to review the material at their own pace. The archived classes provide a convenient and flexible way to reinforce learning and ensure that students can fully grasp the concepts covered in the course.
Perhaps one of the most significant improvements is the implementation of a new cross-platform interface. This ensures that the online language classes are accessible to users of both PCs and Macs, eliminating compatibility issues and allowing students to participate regardless of their preferred operating system. The cross-platform interface is designed to provide a consistent and seamless user experience across all devices, ensuring that all students have equal access to the learning materials and resources.
The online Cherokee language classes are conducted live, allowing for real-time interaction between instructors and students. This interactive format fosters a dynamic and engaging learning environment, where students can ask questions, participate in discussions, and receive immediate feedback from their instructors. The live classes are designed to replicate the experience of a traditional classroom, providing students with the opportunity to learn from experienced instructors and interact with fellow students in a supportive and collaborative setting.
Participation in the online Cherokee language course requires only a computer and an internet connection. While the course is accessible to anyone with internet access, a DSL or higher internet connection is recommended for optimal performance. A faster internet connection ensures that students can stream the live classes without interruption and access the course materials smoothly.
The Cherokee Nation to offer online language course is available at cherokee.org. This website serves as a central hub for all information related to the course, including registration details, course schedules, and technical requirements. It also provides access to a wealth of additional resources, such as language learning materials, cultural information, and links to other relevant websites.
The Cherokee Nation’s dedication to preserving and revitalizing its language is a testament to the importance of cultural heritage and the power of education. By offering online language courses, the tribe is not only providing individuals with the opportunity to learn the Cherokee language but also fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Cherokee culture and history. The Cherokee Nation to offer online language course is more than just a class; it’s a bridge to the past and a pathway to the future. This initiative ensures that the Cherokee language will continue to thrive for generations to come, enriching the lives of those who speak it and contributing to the cultural diversity of the world.