Samoan Language Apps made by Pre-Schoolers

Two language Apps 'O Luga O Le Motu' and 'Tatou ō ile Maketi' were created with direct help from Tino e Tasi Preschoolers; based in Christchurch and Dunedin.

"At the beginning of the project our tamaiti were in disbelief that they could even create their own app.  When we discussed the possibility, some of the kids said "We can't do that" and "we don't have the right tools for that, only adults do".  So after some assurance that it was indeed possible, they were so excited that they were going to create their own game." - Zohar Marshall of Tino e Tasi. 

The children were able to collaborate and work first-hand on the game sound effects and design, creating a "Sesame Street Vibe" app which introduces basic Samoan language to it's users. 

"These apps offer an experience that is reflective of Samoan culture that speaks to and engages children... In O Luga O Le Motu, the children are presented with a series of pictures and underneath each picture are some scrambled letters to match the audio and picture." - Zohar Marshall 

The recent endeavour is breaking barriers in terms of Samoan language based learning for children, espeically in the tech realm. 

"Unfortunately opportunities to be immersed in the Samoan language are not always possible in this day and age.  These apps can be used as a language tool that can enter both homes and all levels of school to help keep the Samoan language relevant.  These apps celebrate Samoan culture and identity from a child centric point of view, where the language can been seen heard and used by  Samoan children and anyone who is interested in knowing more about Samoa." - Zohar Marshall 

For additional information and links to the apps - Visit the Tino e Tasi language page HERE.