The usability of the revised Lëblaŋo orthography among its users in Lira District

Abstract

This was an exploratory study undertaken on the usability of the revised Lëblaŋo orthography among its users in Lira district. The study aimed at assessing the usability of the revised Lëblaŋo orthography against the maximally principles of orthography design. The objectives of the study were to investigate the principles which guided the revision of Lëblaŋo orthography; to examine acceptability of the revised Lëblaŋo orthography among its users; and to explore the challenges of using the revised Lëblaŋo orthography. The study employed a mixed-methods approach of data collection, namely document analysis, questionnaire, writing assessment, interview and field note-taking. Data was gathered sequentially to investigate the principles which guided the revision process with a focus on community’s acceptance and the challenges of using the revised Lëblaŋo orthography. Data was analyzed using a theme-based triangulation approach, with findings cross-checked for validity, reliability and generalizability. Findings revealed varied degrees in attainment of Smalley's (1959; 1964) maximally principles in revising Lëblaŋo orthography. Although the principles of ease of learning and ease of transfer were achieved, motivation, representation of speech and ease of production created conflict. Findings revealed difficulty in practical application of additional sounds (ë, ï, ö, ü, ŋ, ɲ) in writing, typing and printing, government laxity in adhering to the revised Lëblaŋo orthography, existing pre-2013 orthographies in use, inadequate knowledge in using the revised orthography among the community and devaluation of Lëblaŋo as the challenges of using the revised Lëblaŋo orthography. In conclusion, great effort ranging from design principles to promotional activities were vested in revising Lëblaŋo orthography. However, an attempt to achieving maximum representation of speech has hampered acceptability, which is the overriding principle of all. Moreover, the orthography also poses a challenge of ease of (re)production both in hand and in print, considering that the additional sounds are hardly accessible on standard keyboards. These challenges, if not addressed will continue to deter the application of the revised Lëblaŋo orthography among its users