### Academic Proposal: Transformation of Language Identity among the Gurung Community

#### Title

**Transformation of Language Identity among the Gurung Community: A Sociolinguistic Study**

#### Abstract

This proposal outlines a research project aimed at exploring the transformation of language identity among the Gurung community in Nepal. The study will examine the socio-cultural, economic, and political factors influencing language use and identity among the Gurungs, and how these transformations affect the preservation and transmission of their linguistic heritage.

#### Introduction

The Gurung community, one of the indigenous groups in Nepal, has a rich linguistic and cultural heritage. However, like many minority languages, the Gurung language faces challenges due to modernization, migration, and the dominance of Nepali and English. This study aims to investigate how these factors influence the language identity of the Gurung people and what measures can be taken to preserve their linguistic heritage.

#### Research Questions

1. What are the main factors contributing to the transformation of language identity among the Gurung community?

2. How do socio-economic changes influence language use and preference in the Gurung community?

3. What role does education play in the transformation of language identity among the Gurung people?

4. How do the Gurung people perceive the future of their language?

5. What measures can be taken to preserve and promote the Gurung language?

#### Literature Review

The literature review will cover:

- Sociolinguistic theories on language identity and language shift (Fishman, 1991; Edwards, 2009).

- Case studies on language preservation among indigenous communities (Hinton, 2013; Grenoble & Whaley, 2006).

- Historical and contemporary studies on the Gurung community and their language (Levine, 1987; Glover, 1974).

#### Methodology

**1. Research Design**

- **Qualitative Approach**: The study will employ a qualitative approach to gain in-depth insights into the transformation of language identity among the Gurungs.

**2. Data Collection**

- **Interviews**: Semi-structured interviews with Gurung community members, including elders, adults, and youths, to understand their perspectives on language use and identity.

- **Focus Groups**: Conduct focus group discussions with different age groups to explore collective views on language transformation.

- **Participant Observation**: Observe language use in various social settings such as homes, schools, and community gatherings.

**3. Sampling**

- **Purposive Sampling**: Select participants who can provide rich information related to the research questions. This includes community leaders, teachers, students, and parents.

**4. Data Analysis**

- **Thematic Analysis**: Identify and analyze themes related to language identity transformation using qualitative data analysis software (e.g., NVivo).

#### Expected Outcomes

- A comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing language identity among the Gurung community.

- Insights into the impact of socio-economic and educational changes on language use.

- Recommendations for preserving and promoting the Gurung language.

#### Significance of the Study

This study will contribute to the field of sociolinguistics by providing a detailed case study of language identity transformation in a minority community. It will also offer practical recommendations for policymakers, educators, and community leaders to support language preservation efforts.

#### Timeline

- **Months 1-2**: Literature review and research design finalization.

- **Months 3-5**: Data collection (interviews, focus groups, participant observation).

- **Months 6-7**: Data analysis.

- **Months 8-9**: Writing and revising the research report.

- **Month 10**: Submission of the final report and dissemination of findings.

#### Budget

- **Travel and Accommodation**: $2,000

- **Interview Transcription and Translation**: $1,500

- **Qualitative Data Analysis Software**: $500

- **Miscellaneous Expenses**: $500

- **Total**: $4,500

#### References

- Edwards, J. (2009). *Language and Identity: An Introduction*. Cambridge University Press.

- Fishman, J. A. (1991). *Reversing Language Shift: Theoretical and Empirical Foundations of Assistance to Threatened Languages*. Multilingual Matters.

- Grenoble, L. A., & Whaley, L. J. (2006). *Saving Languages: An Introduction to Language Revitalization*. Cambridge University Press.

- Hinton, L. (2013). *Bringing Our Languages Home: Language Revitalization for Families*. Heyday.

- Levine, N. E. (1987). *Cattle and the Cash Economy: The Adaptation of the Gurung*. Human Organization, 46(3), 268-274.

- Glover, W. W. (1974). *The Gurungs of Nepal: A Study in Social Dynamics*. Ratna Pustak Bhandar.

### Appendices

- **Appendix A**: Interview Guide

- **Appendix B**: Focus Group Discussion Guide

- **Appendix C**: Observation Checklist

This proposal provides a structured approach to understanding and documenting the transformation of language identity among the Gurung community, offering both academic insights and practical solutions for language preservation.### Academic Proposal: Transformation of Language Identity among the Gurung Community