It must be emphasized that the Master-Apprentice model for language learning is designed for a highly motivated team willing to commit serious time and effort to ensure that their language is passed on to the next generation. The success or failure of any team will depend on many things. However, the most important factors are the commitment of the apprentice, the support of the elder, and their belief that their language can, and must, be passed on. How fast the apprentice reaches the required level of fluency will depend on many different factors. The western academic community did not invent it.
Apprenticeship is a traditional way of passing knowledge on in almost every society.
What is new is the need to make use of the apprenticeship model to support the survival of Alaska's Native languages.