Learning about American Sign Language
I met a couple the other day having dinner at a restaurant. They were sat in the corner, laughing but saying no words. I noticed they were signing to each other. As we struck up conversation, I found myself at a loss to participate; one of the couple had to translate for me into sign language.
I discovered a desire to learn this new language – one so foreign to me yet so entirely relevant. Thankfully, given our technological age, access to learning this new language is everywhere.
Upon a bit of research I discovered that there are different kinds. There is British, Irish, Chinese, New Zealand and American Sign Language. For my purpose, living in North America, I am going to try and learn some American Sign Language. But what is it?
I’ve decided to follow on Youtube Meredith, a state certified ASL instructor with an M.Ed in Deaf Education. She provides many videos teaching letters, words, phrases, and more. Each week I will review a new video and practice all the new language I am learning.
The great thing about learning online is the ability to connect to other ASL speakers! Through a quick search I have been able to find hundreds of Instagram and TikTok accounts from other individuals teaching ASL.
There are phenomenal ways to learn sign, not just through instruction. Here is najumarquezs who posts videos of signing lyrics to popular songs:
As can see, there is MUCH to learn and in so many ways. My first step will be to explore the many different facets of ASL and how it is being taught online. Keep posted for my next blog post where we make a plan for the coming weeks on different topics and goals to work toward learning ASL! I will be reviewing the Learn How To Sign website to make this plan if you’d like to follow along.
Talk soon!
Photo by Kevin Malik: https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-in-a-black-coat-showing-a-sign-in-a-sign-language-9017412/
I love your anecdote to start off the post! I can also tell you’ve done a lot of digging already, which is very exciting. ASL is something that I’ve been interested in too – so I’m looking forward to checking out some of the awesome resources you’ve provided throughout. Have you heard of https://www.queerasl.com/ ? I wonder if it would be useful in your explorations – I’ve heard it’s a super popular ASL earning platform these days! Thanks for sharing Helena. Looking forward to following along:)
Helena, I am so excited for you! I have always wanted to learn ASL so I am really looking forward to following your journey. I have a close family friend who is an ASL case worker for a Lower Mainland school district and I could definitely ask him for resources that could help you on your journey or if you are interested in Zooming with someone to practice your skills.
I know from him the best way to start is by learning the signing alphabet because it instantly unlocks basic communication. Here’s a link to a video for the alphabet!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGavOVNDj1s