The goal of the project is to co-create an on-line, multimedia linguistic atlas of Algonquian languages. The creation of this atlas allows us to offer many training opportunities for sound editing and linguistic description training to aboriginal students.

One of our goals is also to create contacts between curriculum developers, language specialists and lexicographers of Algonquian languages, with a focus on on-line language resources and dictionaries.

We investigate user-friendly and culturally appropriate computing interfaces and database structures. We encourage dialogue, share our Open Source programs, and provide linguistic and computer training and technical support.

This project is a fertile ground for knowledge transfer and mutual inspiration, with all parties working in a collaborative spirit. Our ultimate goal is to make sure that the beautiful Algonquian languages and the cultures they embody will be heard and spoken by many more generations to come.

This project was co-created in 2005 by Prof. Junker, from Carleton University, Prof. MacKenzie from Memorial University, the Department of Cree Programs of the Cree School Board in Quebec, the Gift of Language and Culture (Saskatchewan Cree), the Innu Education Authority in Labrador, and l'Institut Tshakapesh (formerly Institut culturel et éducatif montagnais) in Quebec. The first phase (2005-2009) of the project was funded by a Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council grant #856-2004-1028.

The current phase (2010-2014), funded by SSHRC grant # 856-2009-0081 involves all original partners and co-creators, as well as new co-investigators: Prof. Arok Wolvengrey from First Nation University, Prof. Rand Valentine from University of Wisconsin & Lakehead University, and Prof. Nicole Rosen, University of Lethbridge. Additional partner organizations are: Le Conseil de la Nation Atikamekw, the Naskapi Development Corporation, and the Membertou First Nation (Mi'kmaw).