2026 CanIL Workshop on Lexicography / Dictionary Making
July 6 - 31, 2026 (4 weeks)
$500 (In person or Online) CAD

The Workshop on Lexicography / Dictionary Making is a four-week program designed primarily for language workers already using or desiring to use FieldWorks (software.sil.org/fieldworks). The workshop runs parallel to to LIN(G) 487 / 587.

If you would prefer to receive undergraduate or graduate credit for the course, you can register for the course through Trinity Western University. Full tuition costs apply (approximately $2300 for undergraduate credit, $1600 for graduate credit). 

Course/Workshop learning outcomes

• Understand key lexicographic terminology and methods

• Design effective, language-specific dictionary entries

• Identify and illustrate word senses using corpus data

• Apply Rapid Word collection and evaluate its strengths and limitations

• Use FieldWorks features (filters, concordances, writing systems, audio recordings and images) to enhance entries

• Gain working knowledge of common lexicography software (FieldWorks, Toolbox, LexiquePro)

• Produce dictionaries for print, mobile, and web audiences

• Apply these skills in a capstone project to advance a real community dictionary project. 

Course/Workshop weekly format

• Lab and lecture sessions Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: 9-11a Pacific

• Readings/Online modules: 1-2 hours per day

• Capstone project data entry and management: 1-2 hours per day

• Individual/small group consultation with instructional staff: 1-2 hours per week

Total: Approximately 17 to 26 hours per week 

APPLICATION and FEES:

If you are interested in participating in the Lexicography / Dictionary-Making Workshop, please consider the following details and steps:

• Complete the Workshop application:  Workshop on Lexicography / Dictionary-Making Application Form

• The application deadline is May 15, 2026, and the application will close when the workshop is full. (Your application will be reviewed by the facilitator, and CanIL Admissions staff will contact you regarding your potential participation in the workshop.)

• The registration fee for the Lexicography / Dictionary-Making Workshop is $500 CAD. Accepted participants must pay this fee by May 15, 2026, to confirm their participation in the workshop.

• Other fees and costs include on-campus housing, food, and transportation.

• On-campus housing options are available