Lifespan learning and literacy for young adults in remote Indigenous communities

The Lifespan learning and literacy for young adults in remote Indigenous communities Project 2007-2010 is jointly funded by the Australian Research Council, the Australian National University and The Fred Hollows Foundation.

This ARC research project has been identifying ‘best practice’ learning projects and programs in remote Indigenous communities for youth aged between 16 and 25 that stimulate the acquisition and development of language and multimodal literacies and support positive identity formation experiences. Through detailed ethnographic research a picture is being constructed of what is going on in what are relatively invisible learning environments. Case study projects commonly incorporate multimedia or digital technologies. Significantly these sites have opened up increased access to literacy technologies and resources where young people can voluntarily engage in self-initiated, self-directed learning.

Research has been carried out in conjunction with:

• Ngaanyatjarra Media in the Ngaanyatjarra Lands communities, Western Australia.
• Northern Territory Library at Lajamanu and TiTree, Northern Territory
• Djilpin Arts in Beswick, Northern Territory
• Ngapartji Ngapartji intergenerational language and arts project in Alice Springs, Northern Territory
• Warlpiri Education and Training Trust at Yuendumu, Nyirripi and Willowra, Northern Territory
• Alice Springs Public Library