A VR-centric project in the UK aims to use the technology to preserve two endangered European languages, using VR and XR technologies to maintain a historical record of the languages.
The 2.96 million Euro project, called Revive, is led by UK university, Anglia Ruskin University, and will focus on the preservation of Griko, which is spoken in parts of Italy, and Kernewek, a language native to Cornwall in the UK. This undertaking will see seven nations participate to preserve and promote endangered languages by combining immersive technologies with participatory storytelling. The project involves a collaboration of academic and industry partners from the UK, Italy, Germany, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, and Estonia, launched as a result of funding from the EU’S Horizon Europe programme. Work on the project is expected to begin in March 2025.
The project will use a combination of XR technologies and digital archives to bring the language to life through testimonials from native speakers, photographs, film, and audio.
It is estimated that at least half of all languages spoken today will disappear or become seriously endangered by the end of the 21st century, with the UN estimating that a language dies out every two weeks. The Cornish language, Kernewek, became extinct in the late 18th century, but underwent a revival in the 20th century which has now seen the language become reclassified as endangered by UNESCO. It is estimated that there are now around 500 fluent Cornish speakers, with thousands more who speak basic Cornish.
A combination of 3D XR technologies, data visualisation and archival research, aiming to bring the language to life for younger generations.
The researchers will also create a digital platform and repository, ensuring that the collected material is available online.
Dr Fabrizio Galeazzi, associate professor in heritage and creative technologies, Anglia Ruskin University, commented: “Languages are part of our shared heritage and identity, and the loss of languages, which is happening at an alarming rate worldwide, is leading to cultural homogenisation.
“Public engagement is key to the survival of minority languages. By involving local communities in the creation of digital content and stories, and then sharing these as widely as possible – both online and through in-person experiences and exhibitions – we aim to make sure every young person in Cornwall is aware of their county’s incredible linguistic heritage.”
Photo: Wheal Coates Tin Mine, St Agnes, Cornwall