What new ideas, challenges, or other issues have you encountered with regard to your project (this might include data collection, information that contradicts your assumptions or the assertions of others, materials that have enriched your understanding of the topic or led you to change your project, etc.)? How have these ideas or challenges shaped the bigger picture of your research? Has the scope or focus of your topic changed since you began this project? If so, how?
- When I first started my project, I wanted to focus my research on doing math modeling on Lushootseed, an indigenous Coastal Salish language spoken in parts of Washington, including the town where I am from. However, within the first week of the program, I quickly realized that there was not enough online data on Lushootseed speakers to suffice my project. So, I decided to shift and focus on 'Ōlelo Hawai'i. As one of few languages to be drastically revitalized, the resurgence of 'Ōlelo Hawai'i was extremely notable to me. As such, the focus of my research shifted. With 'Ōlelo Hawai'i, I was able to find more online resources, conduct an interview, and carry out my math modeling with a greater level of precision. Initially, I was hesitant to shift the focus of my research, as I felt I had more of a personal connection to Lushootseed. However, I was able to add a portion in my research paper where I discuss how the revitalization of 'Ōlelo Hawai'i can inform methods of revitalizing other endangered languages around the world, including Lushootseed.
Where does your research take place--or where is a favorite place to conduct your research? Post a photo!
- I have been conducting my research from different cafes around the city—I love to change up where I work, especially when I am feeling stuck in my writing. Recently, I went to a café near Pier 15 overlooking the water. Something about the view made me especially productive that day!