Design and implementation of an onscreen keyboard for Yoruba language

Abstract

Language is essential for human existence; it enhances understanding between individuals whilst aiding communication. The Yorùbá language is one of the major Nigerian languages, that is gradually being eroded due to different reasons such as westernization, colonial legacy, modernization and economic development, advancement of technology amongst other reasons, it is therefore necessary for Africans especially of Yorùbá descent to save Yorùbá language. In this paper, an Onscreen Keyboard model is presented with an attempt to save Yorùbá language by prolonging its’ use through technology as it evolves. Data was collected on Yorùbá alphabets and a computational model was formulated (using unified modelling language) based on the output of the collected data. The On screen keyboard’s model was implemented using visual C#, and the system was evaluated to test its effectiveness. The model allows user input into the computer using Yorùbá language whilst predicting text as the user types thereby enhancing easy typing and learning experience. Although, the model was tested on Windows operating system, the model design can easily be adapted to other operating systems environments. In this study, we have successfully localized the typical English Language keyboard to allow input in Yorùbá language.

Keywords: Language, Yorùbá, Endangered, Onscreen keyboard

Vol. 26 No 1, June 2019