Analyzing kinship systems can be complex, but with the SILKin software, it becomes a structured and manageable task. SILKin, developed by SIL International, is a specialized tool designed to aid in the documentation and analysis of kinship terminology and genealogies. By leveraging SILKin, researchers and community linguists can systematically capture and understand the intricacies of kin relationships within various cultures, contributing to broader linguistic and cultural studies.

This guide will walk you through how to install, get started with, and use SILKin to analyze and document kinship systems, emphasizing the collaborative and empowering approach of SIL International in promoting community flourishing.

How To Guide

Installing SILKin

  1. Install Java Runtime: SILKin requires the JAVA RUNTIME environment. Download and install it from Oracle if it is not already on your computer.
  2. Download SILKin: Go to the SILK Download page and download the appropriate version for your operating system (Windows, Mac, or Linux).

For Windows

  • Download and run the Windows Installer.

For Mac

  • Download the .ZIP file and double-click it to expand into a “SILKin Release” folder. Inside this folder, locate the “dist” folder and double-click the “SILKin.jar” file to launch SILKin.

For Linux

  • Download the .ZIP file and expand it into a “SILKin Release” folder. Place this folder wherever you prefer.

If security warnings appear, refer to your system settings to allow SILKin to open.

Getting Started with SILKin

  1. Launch SILKin: Double-click the “SILKin.jar” file to start the software.
  2. Explore Help Files: Upon launching, read the Help files displayed. These can always be accessed from the Help menu.
  3. Create Sample Data: Try creating a few people and marriages to get a feel for the application.
  4. Load Example Files: Load examples such as “Adam-and-Eve.silk” to see sample family data.

Building Your First Kinship Chart

  1. Start a New Project: Click on the chart area and choose to create a Female, Male, or Union (marriage). Name your project, typically based on the culture or language you are studying.
  2. Enter Data: As you create individuals and unions, enter relevant information in the Detail Display such as names, kin terms, and dates of birth.

Adding and Linking People and Unions

  1. Add People to Unions: Drag and drop individuals onto unions to add them as spouses or children. Repeat the action to remove them if necessary.
  2. Detail Display: Click on any person or union to view or edit their detailed information. Enter kin terms for relationships from Ego’s perspective.

Managing Your Data

  1. Save Your Work: Regularly save your data via the File menu options “Save” and “Save As”.
  2. Opening Contexts: To continue working, open existing SILK files from the “Context Under Construction” folder.

Using Advanced Features

  1. Creating Multiple Charts: For large data sets, create multiple charts and link them as needed.
  2. Editing and Defining Kin Terms: Use the Theory Editor to create and refine definitions for kin terms. Refer to the detailed guide on Editing Definitions for more information.
  3. Handling Special Relationships: Define adoptions, clan affiliations, and other special relationships using User-Defined Properties (UDPs).

Reviewing and Acting on Suggestions

  1. Get Suggestions: Use the “Get New Suggestions” feature to let SILKin analyze your data and propose definitions.
  2. Act on Suggestions: Review and accept or reject suggestions to refine your kinship system definitions.

Additional Resources

  • For detailed instructions on installation, refer to the How to Install page.
  • New users can watch tutorial videos available on the Help and Tutorials page.
  • Consult the FAQ page for common questions and troubleshooting tips.
  • Access extensive documentation through the Help menu or download the User Manual from the Download page.

By following these steps and utilizing the features of SILKin, you can systematically analyze and document kinship systems, contributing valuable insights to both academic research and community knowledge preservation.