A sociolinguistic survey of language behaviours and attitudes in Nain, Nunatsiavut

Andersen, Catharyn (2009) A sociolinguistic survey of language behaviours and attitudes in Nain, Nunatsiavut. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

The goal of this thesis is to provide a snapshot of the linguistic situation within the community of Nain, Nunatsiavut. Community members have been aware for some time that a language shift has been occurring. Nevertheless, it is important to document current language behaviours - proficiency, acquisition and use - and attitudes towards the language. -- To gather this information, a questionnaire was administered to a stratified judgment sample of 50 residents to gauge their proficiency in speaking, understanding, reading and writing Inuttitut; how they acquired the language; and in what contexts and with what frequency they use it. Further to this, respondents were asked their opinions on a range of language issues, including knowing both Inuttitut and English. These questions sought to uncover some of the attitudes, beliefs and values that residents have towards Inuttitut. The results show that Inuttitut is important to the residents of the community and they want to see increased visibility throughout the school and the community. But the fact remains, the existence of Inuttitut is threatened in this community, evident in the decreasing levels of proficiency among younger generations and a diminished use of the language in all contexts.

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