Bleeding Edge Teaching Technologies: Pushing the Envelope of the Language-Graphics Interface

Abstract:
This presentation discusses actual research in Apache language learning using graphics/text approaches, and proposes
directions for a seamless interface between the visual/graphical and textual environments.

A potential learning bridge exists because many Native American students are tactile/kinesthetic global learners with
strong spatial skills who learn best when they can see the Big Picture and when they can actually participate in learning related activities, but to date, technological developments that could facilitate or automate the development of these types of comprehensive teaching materials have been parallel and there is no direct interface of any type, either from text to graphics, or from graphics to text.

This presentation considers the various complexities of these issues and how they relate to language choice in the
various environments, and draws a sharp and clear parallel between technical language in textual vs. graphics domains
and between Tribal vs. mainstream understandings. The discussion concludes with a consideration of how prototypical
strategies developed specifically for teaching visual programming might be an excellent bootstrap; and considers both a
proposed source of funding and a multi-disciplinary collaboration that is a major requirement of many large-scale grants today.