An Introduction to Nepali: An Open Access Textbook for Beginning Learners

Project Title	An Introduction to Nepali: An Open Access Textbook for Beginning Learners
Principal Investigator	Mark Turin
Co-Applicants	-Binod Shrestha, Adjunct Professor, Nepali Language, Department of Asian Studies, -Tsering Shakya, Associate Professor, Tibetan and Himalayan Studies, Steering Committee Member UBC Himalaya Program, Department of Asian Studies
Faculty	Arts
Funding Year	2025
Project Summary	We will develop an open access textbook entitled “An Introduction to Nepali: An Open Access Textbook for Beginning Learners” for students at UBC and beyond. While Nepali is spoken by more than 17 million people globally, the number of universities where Nepali is taught can be counted on one hand. Thanks to the growing visibility of UBC’s Himalaya Program, we are now a recognized international centre for Nepali language instruction and research. Drawing on the success of an OER Rapid Innovation Grant (2020-2021), through which we developed basic resources for both Nepali and Tibetan, we are now well-positioned to enrich and extend our existing language learning resources. We will build an integrated, multimedia learning platform that introduces learners to the fundamentals of Nepali grammar and core vocabulary, enhanced by interactive exercises, audio guides, and culturally contextualized dialogues. We will adhere to UBC’s accessibility and diversity guidelines, ensuring inclusive learning experiences for all. We anticipate that some users will be non-traditional students or heritage learners that engage with our content from beyond the walls of the university This free textbook will reduce student cost, extend global access, and foster deeper understanding of a historically marginalized immigrant community through cultural connection.
Grant type	OER Affordability Grant
Funded Amount	$24,954