Grants:Programs/Wikimedia Community Fund/Rapid Fund/Free accessible Namibian local language learning materials (ID: 22400016)
This is an automatically generated Meta-Wiki page. The page was copied from Fluxx, the grantmaking web service of Wikimedia Foundation where the user has submitted their application. Please do not make any changes to this page because all changes will be removed after the next update. Use the discussion page for your feedback. The page was created by CR-FluxxBot.
Applicant Details edit
- Main Wikimedia username. (required)
Jacobamakali
- Organization
N/A
- If you are a group or organization leader, board member, president, executive director, or staff member at any Wikimedia group, affiliate, or Wikimedia Foundation, you are required to self-identify and present all roles. (required)
N/A
- Describe all relevant roles with the name of the group or organization and description of the role. (required)
Main Proposal edit
- 1. Please state the title of your proposal. This will also be the Meta-Wiki page title.
Free accessible Namibian local language learning materials
- 2. and 3. Proposed start and end dates for the proposal.
2024-04-01 - 2024-07-30
- 4. Where will this proposal be implemented? (required)
Namibia
- 5. Are your activities part of a Wikimedia movement campaign, project, or event? If so, please select the relevant project or campaign. (required)
Not applicable
- 6. What is the change you are trying to bring? What are the main challenges or problems you are trying to solve? Describe this change or challenges, as well as main approaches to achieve it. (required)
The change I am trying to bring through my project is to provide free and accessible language learning materials for Namibian local languages, namely Oshindonga and Oshikwanyama. The main challenge or problem I am trying to solve is the lack of easily accessible and comprehensive language learning resources for these specific languages. Namibia is a linguistically diverse country with numerous indigenous languages spoken by different communities. However, the availability of educational materials and resources for learning these languages is limited, especially in digital formats that can be accessed globally. This creates a barrier for individuals who are interested in learning these languages but do not have access to appropriate learning materials. To address this challenge, my project aims to develop high-quality language learning materials for Oshindonga and Oshikwanyama. These materials will be designed to cater to learners of different proficiency levels, from beginners to advanced learners. The approach to achieving this change involves several key steps: Research and Content Development: Extensive research will be conducted on the grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and cultural aspects of each language. This will ensure that the learning materials are accurate and culturally relevant. The content will be developed in collaboration with native speakers and language experts to ensure authenticity. Curriculum Design: A structured curriculum will be designed for each language, outlining the progression of topics and skills to be covered at each level. This will provide learners with a clear learning path and enable them to track their progress. Multimedia Resources: The learning materials will incorporate various multimedia resources such as audio recordings, interactive exercises, and quizzes. These resources will enhance the learning experience by providing opportunities for listening, speaking, reading, and writing practice. Online Platform: An online platform will be developed to host the language learning materials. This platform will be user-friendly and accessible to anyone with an internet connection. It will allow learners to access the materials at their own pace and convenience, from anywhere in the world. Community Engagement: To ensure the sustainability of the project, efforts will be made to engage with the local communities speaking these languages. This will involve seeking feedback, incorporating community suggestions, and encouraging community participation in the development and improvement of the learning materials.
By providing free and easily accessible language learning materials for Oshindonga and Oshikwanyama, my project aims to empower individuals who are interested in learning these languages, this can be anyone outside Namibia or Africa and would like to visit. It will contribute to preserving and promoting Namibian cultural heritage while fostering linguistic diversity and understanding.
- 7. What are the planned activities? (required) Please provide a list of main activities. You can also add a link to the public page for your project where details about your project can be found. Alternatively, you can upload a timeline document. When the activities include partnerships, include details about your partners and planned partnerships.
Language consultation and collaboration Before anything. Reaching out to native speakers and language experts of the selected languages and brief them about the project and how to go about working on it. Research and Content Gathering: This activity would involve conducting thorough research on the selected languages, including their grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and cultural context. This research will serve as the foundation for creating accurate and comprehensive learning materials. Additionally, content gathering from existing resources such as books, audio recordings, and native speakers' contributions will enrich the learning materials. Curriculum Development: Once the research and content gathering phase is complete, the next step would be to develop a structured curriculum for each language. This curriculum should include progressive lessons that cover various aspects of language learning, such as reading, writing, speaking, and listening. The curriculum should be designed in a way that caters to learners of different proficiency levels, from beginners to advanced learners.
Material Creation/ creation of online learning platform
After finalizing the curriculum, develop a user-friendly online platform for hosting and delivering the language learning materials. the focus will shift towards creating the actual online learning materials., audio recordings, interactive online exercises, and quizzes. It is crucial to ensure that these materials are accessible online and free for anyone across the globe to access. The use of multimedia elements can enhance engagement and facilitate effective language learning.
Review and Feedback:
Throughout the project timeline, it is essential to incorporate a review and feedback mechanism. This can involve engaging with language experts, educators, native speakers, and potential learners to gather feedback on the developed materials. Regular reviews will help identify areas for improvement and ensure that the learning materials meet the needs of the target audience effectively. Translation and Localization: To further enhance the accessibility and reach of the learning materials, translating them into other widely spoken languages can be considered. This will enable learners from different linguistic backgrounds to benefit from the resources. Additionally, localizing the materials by incorporating cultural references and examples specific to Namibian contexts will make the learning experience more relevant and relatable for the target audience. Promotion and Outreach: Once the learning materials are developed, it is crucial to promote and raise awareness about their availability. This can be done through various channels such as social media, educational institutions, language learning communities, and relevant online platforms. Collaborating with local organizations, schools, and community centers in Namibia can also help in reaching out to the target audience effectively.
Continuous lifetime Improvement and Updates:
Language learning is an ongoing process, and it is important to continuously improve and update the learning materials based on user feedback and evolving language needs. Regularly assessing the effectiveness of the materials through user surveys, analytics, and engagement metrics will provide valuable insights for future iterations and updates. These activities have been chosen because they form a comprehensive approach to developing high-quality language learning materials for Oshindonga, Oshikwanyama, and other Namibian local languages. The research and content gathering phase ensures accuracy and authenticity, while curriculum development provides a structured framework for learners. Material creation focuses on creating diverse resources that cater to different learning styles, while review and feedback ensure continuous improvement. Translation and localization enhance accessibility, while promotion and outreach maximize the impact of the project. These activities are expected to be effective because they address key aspects of language learning material development. By conducting thorough research, following a structured curriculum, creating engaging materials, incorporating feedback, promoting accessibility, and continuously improving based on user needs, the project aims to provide effective language learning resources that meet the requirements of learners across the globe.
- 8. Describe your team. Please provide their roles, Wikimedia Usernames and other details. (required) Include more details of the team, including their roles, usernames, Wikimedia group, and whether they are salaried, volunteers, consultants/contractors, etc. Team members involved in the grant application need to be aware of their involvement in the project.
Once my proposal is approved, I am planning to have team that consists of the following people: Project manager, that’s myself and my role will be to oversee the entire project, ensuring that timelines are met, resources are allocated efficiently, and communication flows smoothly between team members. I will coordinate the efforts of all experts involved and ensure the project stays on track.
Local language expert- This are individuals who are fluent in Namibian local languages is crucial for this project. These specialists will be responsible for identifying, curating, and creating learning materials in local languages, ensuring their accuracy and cultural relevance.
Technology expert - Given the digital nature of accessing free learning materials, recruiting individuals with expertise in technology, particularly e-learning platforms and digital content management systems, will be essential. Marketing personnel-These individuals will be responsible for promoting the availability of free local language learning materials to the target audience through various marketing channels.
- 9. Who are the target participants and from which community? How will you engage participants before and during the activities? How will you follow up with participants after the activities? (required)
The target participants for the project of creating free accessible Namibian local language learning materials, specifically in Oshindonga and Oshikwanyama, are individuals from both the Namibian community and the global community who are interested in learning these languages. The project aims to provide resources that can be accessed by anyone online, regardless of their nationality or location. To engage participants before and during the activities, several strategies can be implemented: Community Outreach: Engaging with local communities in Namibia through partnerships with schools, universities, cultural organizations, and language learning centers. This can involve organizing workshops, seminars, or language exchange programs to raise awareness about the project and encourage participation. Online Platforms: Utilizing various online platforms such as social media, forums, and language learning websites to reach a wider audience. Creating dedicated groups or forums where participants can interact with each other, ask questions, share their progress, and provide feedback on the learning materials. Collaborative Approach: Encouraging collaboration among participants by providing opportunities for them to contribute to the development of the learning materials. This can be done through crowd-sourcing exercises where individuals can submit their own content or suggest improvements to existing materials. Regular Communication: Maintaining regular communication with participants through newsletters, email updates, or online discussion boards. Providing them with relevant information about upcoming activities, progress reports on the project, and opportunities for further involvement. Following up with participants after the activities is crucial for sustaining their engagement and ensuring the long-term impact of the project. Here are some ways to achieve this: Feedback Mechanisms: Establishing feedback mechanisms that allow participants to provide their thoughts and suggestions on the learning materials they have used. This can be done through online surveys, feedback forms, or interactive sessions where participants can share their experiences. Continuous Improvement: Actively incorporating participant feedback into the ongoing development of the learning materials. This demonstrates a commitment to addressing their needs and preferences, which in turn encourages continued engagement. Community Building: Creating a sense of community among participants by facilitating ongoing interactions and networking opportunities. This can be achieved through online forums, language exchange programs, or virtual meetups where participants can connect with each other and practice their language skills. By implementing these strategies, the project can effectively engage participants before, during, and after the activities, fostering a supportive learning environment and ensuring the long-term success of the initiative.
- 10. Does your project involve work with children or youth? (required)
No
- 10.1. Please provide a link to your Youth Safety Policy. (required) If the proposal indicates direct contact with children or youth, you are required to outline compliance with international and local laws for working with children and youth, and provide a youth safety policy aligned with these laws. Read more here.
N/A
- 11. How did you discuss the idea of your project with your community members and/or any relevant groups? Please describe steps taken and provide links to any on-wiki community discussion(s) about the proposal. (required) You need to inform the community and/or group, discuss the project with them, and involve them in planning this proposal. You also need to align the activities with other projects happening in the planned area of implementation to ensure collaboration within the community.
In discussing the idea of the project with the community members and relevant groups, several steps were taken to ensure effective communication and collaboration. The following outlines the process and provides links to on-wiki community discussions about the proposal. Identifying Stakeholders The first step involved identifying key stakeholders within the Namibian community who would be instrumental in providing insights and feedback on the project. This included educators, language experts, community leaders, and individuals passionate about preserving and promoting local languages such as Oshindonga and Oshikwanyama. Community Outreach A series of community outreach initiatives will be conducted to engage with potential beneficiaries of the project. This involve organizing town hall meetings, workshops. These interactions will provide an opportunity to gauge interest, gather suggestions, and address any concerns related to accessing free local language learning materials. Collaboration Alignment Efforts will be made to align the project activities with other ongoing initiatives or projects within the planned area of implementation. This ensures collaboration within the community and leveraged existing resources or expertise to support the development of local language learning materials. Engaging with the Namibian community and relevant groups will be a crucial aspect of planning the proposal for accessing free local language learning materials. Through stakeholder identification, community outreach and collaboration alignment, the project aims to incorporate diverse perspectives and foster a sense of ownership within the community.
- 12. Does your proposal aim to work to bridge any of the content knowledge gaps (Knowledge Inequity)? Select one option that most apply to your work. (required)
Language
- 13. Does your proposal include any of these areas or thematic focus? Select one option that most applies to your work. (required)
Education
- 14. Will your work focus on involving participants from any underrepresented communities? Select one option that most apply to your work. (required)
Linguistic / Language
- 15. In what ways do you think your proposal most contributes to the Movement Strategy 2030 recommendations. Select one that most applies. (required)
Innovate in Free Knowledge
Learning and metrics edit
- 17. What do you hope to learn from your work in this project or proposal? (required)
What do I hope to learn from my work in this project or proposal? If I am successful in my project to access free Namibian local language (Oshindonga and Oshikwanyama) learning materials, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of the following key areas: Language Acquisition and Retention: How do learners acquire and retain knowledge when using free, open-source language learning resources? Which resources are most effective in promoting language retention and fluency? Cultural Significance of Local Languages: What are the cultural significance and importance of Oshindonga and Oshikwanyama languages in Namibia? How can these languages be preserved and promoted through access to free learning materials? Community Engagement and Participation: How can community engagement and participation be encouraged and supported in the development and distribution of free local language learning materials? What role can technology play in facilitating community involvement and collaboration? Sustainability and Scale: How can free local language learning materials be sustained over time, and how can they be scaled up to reach a wider audience? What are the potential challenges and limitations of using open-source resources, and how can they be addressed? Learning Questions: What are the most effective strategies for creating and distributing free, open-source local language learning materials? How can technology be leveraged to support community engagement and participation in the development and distribution of local language learning materials? What are the potential challenges and limitations of using open-source resources for language learning, and how can they be addressed?
- 18. What are your Wikimedia project targets in numbers (metrics)? (required)
| Other Metrics | Target | Optional description |
|---|---|---|
| Number of participants | 3000000 | This number includes local Namibians and any other people from across the globe. Thy can be more than that. |
| Number of editors | 10000 | Local experts in this languages. |
| Number of organizers | 1000 | These can people any person involved in any stage of our language project |
| Wikimedia project | Number of content created or improved |
|---|---|
| Wikipedia | |
| Wikimedia Commons | |
| Wikidata | |
| Wiktionary | |
| Wikisource | |
| Wikimedia Incubator | |
| Translatewiki | |
| MediaWiki | |
| Wikiquote | |
| Wikivoyage | |
| Wikibooks | |
| Wikiversity | |
| Wikinews | |
| Wikispecies | |
| Wikifunctions or Abstract Wikipedia |
- Optional description for content contributions.
N/A
- 19. Do you have any other project targets in numbers (metrics)? (optional)
No
| Main Open Metrics | Description | Target |
|---|---|---|
| N/A | N/A | N/A |
| N/A | N/A | N/A |
| N/A | N/A | N/A |
| N/A | N/A | N/A |
| N/A | N/A | N/A |
- 20. What tools would you use to measure each metrics? Please refer to the guide for a list of tools. You can also write that you are not sure and need support. (required)
Carrying out surveys.
Financial proposal edit
- 21. Please upload your budget for this proposal or indicate the link to it. (required)
- 22. and 22.1. What is the amount you are requesting for this proposal? Please provide the amount in your local currency. (required)
89000 NAD
- 22.2. Convert the amount requested into USD using the Oanda converter. This is done only to help you assess the USD equivalent of the requested amount. Your request should be between 500 - 5,000 USD.
4848.3 USD
- We/I have read the Application Privacy Statement, WMF Friendly Space Policy and Universal Code of Conduct.
Yes
Endorsements and Feedback edit
Please add endorsements and feedback to the grant discussion page only. Endorsements added here will be removed automatically.
Community members are invited to share meaningful feedback on the proposal and include reasons why they endorse the proposal. Consider the following:
- Stating why the proposal is important for the communities involved and why they think the strategies chosen will achieve the results that are expected.
- Highlighting any aspects they think are particularly well developed: for instance, the strategies and activities proposed, the levels of community engagement, outreach to underrepresented groups, addressing knowledge gaps, partnerships, the overall budget and learning and evaluation section of the proposal, etc.
- Highlighting if the proposal focuses on any interesting research, learning or innovation, etc. Also if it builds on learning from past proposals developed by the individual or organization, or other Wikimedia communities.
- Analyzing if the proposal is going to contribute in any way to important developments around specific Wikimedia projects or Movement Strategy.
- Analysing if the proposal is coherent in terms of the objectives, strategies, budget, and expected results (metrics).