What Happened?
Oral History requires an unbroken  chain – each generation learning  from the previous. If the chain is broken in one generation, it is possible to by-pass that generation and have the elders teach the children. However, if two generations are lost, language and culture begin to disappear.
How Can We Recover?
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Preserve knowledge by the means available.
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Share knowledge among those affected.
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Act immediately so nothing else is lost.
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Convert archived information into usable forms.
How can technology help an oral culture?
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By enabling the re-creation of the chain of knowledge to future generations.
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By improving communication among physically separated peoples.
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By allowing geographically separated peoples to communicate with each other.
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By allowing discussion on traditional knowledge and language.
Is there a conflict between technology and an oral culture?
No. Technology helps restore lost elements of oral culture. In cultures around the world, the spoken word is the primary source of culture, even if a written language exists. Technology allows people to be brought closer together. Advances in technology, if  properly used, assist in communication.

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