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Learn Noongar with online courses and programs

Explore the beauty of the Noongar language and culture, while connecting with the rich heritage of the people. Learn Noongar with online courses delivered through edX.

What is Noongar?

Noongar, often spelled as Nyungar or Nyoongar, is the Australian Aboriginal language spoken by the Noongar people. Originating from the southwestern and western regions of Australia, this language is a remarkable fusion of indigenous dialects that merged over time, particularly after the English colonization of the continent.

Despite challenges in identifying the exact languages encompassed by Noongar, a pivotal turning point was marked in 1990 when the Nyoongar Language Project Advisory Panel officially recognized the existence of Noongar dialects.Footnote 1 This acknowledgment breathed new life into preserving and promoting the age-old language.

Noongar | Introduction Image

Noongar course curriculum

An online course in Noongar can offer an engaging exploration of this fascinating Aboriginal language and its rich cultural history. Topics you may cover in an online course can include:

  • Introduction to Noongar language: Learn the basics of Noongar pronunciation, vocabulary, and sentence structure.

  • Cultural insights: Gain insight into Noongar culture, traditions, and history.

  • Language proficiency: Focus on grammar, idiomatic expressions, and fluency.

  • Historical significance: Explore historical context of the Noongar language, including its decline and recent efforts to revive and preserve it.

  • Cultural preservation: Learn about initiatives, organizations, and individuals working to ensure the legacy of Noongar remains vibrant.

An online course in Noongar can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the culture and history of its people. edX offers a variety of educational opportunities for learners interested in studying different languages, as well as a host of other disciplines. You can also choose from different learning formats. A boot camp can provide flexible hands-on learning for those who want to upskill quickly, while executive education programs are designed for busy professionals. You can also pursue a more comprehensive curriculum in a bachelor’s degree program or, for more advanced learners, a master’s degree program. Find the right learning path for you.

Why learn Noongar?

Completing a course in Noongar can open the doors to a wide range of exciting career opportunities. Different professional positions that can benefit from a background in Noongar studies include:

  • Language educator: Teaches the Noongar language and culture to learners, community members, and organizations.

  • Cultural preservationist: Works to preserve and promote Noongar culture, heritage, and traditions.

  • Indigenous language researcher: Conducts research on Noongar language and contributes to language revitalization efforts.

  • Cultural liaison officer: Acts as a bridge between indigenous and non-indigenous communities to foster cultural understanding.

  • Indigenous education specialist: Develops and implements educational programs that incorporate Noongar culture and history.

Each of these roles will have different education and skills requirements. Before deciding on a specific learning path, research the positions you hope to pursue and align your coursework with your career goals.

Are you ready to promote and preserve the Noongar culture, while fostering greater understanding and collaboration in society? Start learning with edX today. 

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