The Institute for Native Pacific Education & Culture (INPEACE) is developing a web- and mobile-based pilot project aimed at teaching people conversational Hawaiian.

The goal is to turn knowledge of words, phrases, songs and chants into high-level proficiency. The program is the first of its kind for Hawaiian language learners, according to a press release. 

INPEACE has received a three-year $776,700 grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families’ Administration for Native Americans to develop the web program. 

Hawaiian language and cultural education expert Kū Kahakalau — who’s known for developing the bilingual “pedagogy of aloha” instructional framework — is directing the project. 

From a press release:

“This latest endeavor involves a radically new, fun way of learning Hawaiian language, based on decades of action research. Our approach is culturally driven and family-oriented and aligns with both ancient methods, as well as the latest in language learning,” explained Dr. Kahakalau. “I am excited to embark on this new journey with INPEACE by creating a way that makes learning Hawaiian fun and easy and builds on the assets of the entire ‘ohana – thereby empowering Hawaiians of all ages to enjoy speaking our mother tongue again.”

Students — including small groups and families — will enroll in four 20-week courses to improve conversational skills and build vocabulary. Multimedia, activities and games will be incorporated into the lessons. 

INPEACE this fall plans to start testing the pilot among Hawaiian families, organizations and charter schools. The worldwide launch is slated for summer 2015.  

— Alia Wong