Mayasoundex: A Phonetically Grounded Algorithm for Information Retrieval in the Maya Language

Abstract

This paper introduces Mayasoundex, a phonetically grounded algorithm tailored for information retrieval in the Maya language. Mayasoundex utilizes phonetic principles to generate consistent codes for words with similar sounds, promoting phonetic similarity in information retrieval tasks. Drawing upon the distinctive phonological characteristics of the Maya language, the algorithm offers a robust approach to indexing and searching linguistic data. The proposed method addresses challenges posed by the oral tradition and the recent adoption of Latin characters in Maya writing, and provides a versatile solution for preserving and promoting the Maya language through advanced information retrieval technologies.

Alejandro Molina Villegas

Languages, Territory and AI Group Lead

Cátedras Conacyt researcher at the Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de Información Geoespacial (CentroGeo), Yucatán. His research lines include natural language processing, data mining, geoparsing, machine learning, and technologies for the Maya language.