HAGÅTÑA, GUAM – June 10, 2025 – A University of Guam researcher has launched a qualitative study to analyze the transformations in the CHamoru language and is calling on Fino’ CHamoru speakers of all fluency levels to participate in a new study aimed at understanding its evolution and current state. The study, “Ina’guyon Fino’ CHamoru, ” provides a unique opportunity for the community to contribute to vital linguistic research which will provide critical data for language preservation policies and educational curriculum.
Led by Principal Investigator Elvin Quitugua (originally of As Teo, Saipan and Kagman High School graduate), the research focuses on identifying which grammatical and structural features of Fino’ CHamoru are being retained, transformed, or lost in modern usage. By comparing insights from speakers at all levels of proficiency-from fluent native speakers to new learners-the findings will document language trends and create an invaluable resource for both preservation and academic knowledge.
“We want to understand the subtle changes happening beneath the surface of our language. This research is crucial to ensure that as Fino’ CHamoru is passed on, we aren’t unintentionally ‘distilling’ it or losing its rich, built-in features that make it distinct and unique,” said Quitugua. “The findings will directly inform curriculum proposals and preservation strategies. Every speaker holds a piece of this story, and their participation is vital to protecting our linguistic heritage.”
The study design relies on insights from two distinct participant groups and offers convenient, confidential ways to contribute:
1.Online Survey: A 10-20 minute confidential online survey where participants answer questions based on different sentence structures. To take the survey, visit finochamorustudy.laguas.com.
2.Focus Groups: Interactive sessions for a more in-depth conversation. These are held in person at public gathering spots on Guam once a week during the weekends. For CNMI or off-island participants, virtual focus groups via video call are also being held. The enrollment period to join focus group sessions ends on June 18, 2025. Slots are limited.
The study is conducted under the CHamoru Language and Culture Researcher Training Program and has been approved by the University of Guam’s Institutional Review Board (IRB Study No. IRB-24-129). All data collected will be confidential, and the study’s spelling conventions adhere to the official orthography of the Kumisión I Fino’ CHamoru (Chamorro Language Commission of Guam).
How to Participate in the Study:
– Take the Online Survey: Visit finochamorustudy.laguas.com
– Join a Focus Group: To inquire about limited slots, contact the research team by email at: info-chamorustudy@laguas.com or via the contact form at finochamorustudy.laguas.com/contact. The enrollment period to join focus group sessions ends on June 18, 2025.
Online Survey & Call Out Flyer seeking participants for FInu’ Chamorro Research Study
