M.A. Theses in Linguistics
at the University of North Dakota
(Abstracts)

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Karan, Elke 2006
Writing System Development and Reform: A Process

Orthography issues are complex. Although literature about writing systems has flourished in recent years, issues which preoccupy practitioners involved in orthography design or reform are rarely addressed.

This thesis provides an overview of theory relating to establishing orthographies for unwritten languages and modifying existing systems. It presents principles and recommendations which favor popular acceptance and successful implementation. Introductory chapters explain the recent increased interest in orthography, define terms, introduce pertinent literature, and give an overview of writing system typology. Remaining chapters present linguistic and non-linguistic factors which influence orthography decisions, examine writing system adaptation options, discuss orthography testing, consider motivations for and against reform, and present orthography reform case studies. The orthography development process for Sango, the national official language of the Central African Republic, is documented in detail to illustrate the complexity of the issues involved in working toward a written standard. This thesis illustrates that orthography development is a process, requiring diplomacy, dialogue and negotiation. Experience shows that involving stakeholders in the process is key to success. An orthography not used by the population spells ‘defeat’.

The author may be contacted by email at "elke_karan@sil.org".

Download thesis from http://www.und.edu/dept/linguistics/theses/2006Karan.PDF

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