Language survey
Researching unwritten languages
One of the first steps before a Bible translation project can be started is to research the real need for translation.
What languages are spoken, and by whom? Which dialects could potentially use the same translation? Which languages will still be used in 20 years time? Who would be key partners in any translation project?
To research these things, language surveyors travel extensively throughout a language area, typically collecting word lists and interviewing local people in an attempt to understand the language situation. Factors such as comprehension and attitudes towards other language varieties are key when determining translation need.
Language survey is an enormous job - more than 2,600 of the world's 6,900 languages have not yet been assessed.
Language survey is at the cutting edge of frontier missions. Surveyors use scientific research methods, the results of which can benefit not just Bible translation, but other agencies interested in minority groups. Surveyors must work long hours under often rugged conditions, but the experience opens up a whole new world of discovery!
Due to the nature of the work, language surveyors should be prepared to commit themselves to initial period of service of 2-3 years.
- View our infosheet on language survey (pdf, 337KB)
- Browse current language related vacancies
- Investigate opportunities to do language survey work overseas
- Contact us
- Back to Roles within Wycliffe
