Organisers: Carolyn O'Meara, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México; Ewelina Wnuk, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics; Clair Hill, Lund University and Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics

Abstract: Language documentation is the subfield of linguistics that is concerned with the creation and management of language records. The aim of this workshop is to provide an overview of basic techniques and best practices used in language documentation for non-linguists, including demonstrations of key software and basic workflow.

Format: interactive activity; workshop

Language documentation is the subfield of linguistics that is concerned with the creation and management of language records. This includes the initial recording of documentary material (usually audio or video), but also the process of annotating, transcribing, translating, archiving and distributing such material. The aim of this workshop is to provide an overview of basic techniques and best practices used in language documentation for non-linguists. We will lead participants through the basic workflow and methods for language documentation, including tips in elicitation and recording. Recent years have seen the development of an array of software and technological tools for language documentation. Hands-on demonstrations will be provided of key software so that interested participants who have installed the relevant programmes on their laptops ahead of the workshop can follow along. We will also provide information on existing tutorials and resources for continued self-training.