Learning a new language is one of the most rewarding experiences. But have you ever considered learning American Sign Language (ASL)? ASL is a powerful form of communication and understanding that can open doors to cultural appreciation and lifelong friendships. I learned ASL my freshman year of college, and it has forever changed my life. In this blog post, I will discuss why I chose to learn ASL and why I believe you should too. From increasing employment opportunities to open our minds in ways we never imagined, read on to discover how learning ASL can be incredibly beneficial for everyone!
The History of American Sign Language
American Sign Language (ASL) is the predominant sign language of Deaf communities in the United States and most of anglophone Canada. Besides North America, dialects of ASL and ASL-based creoles are used in many countries around the world, including much of West Africa and parts of Southeast Asia. ASL is also widely known as a lingua franca among deaf people who may have little or no knowledge of English.
ASL originated in the early 19th century with Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet, a hearing man who was profoundly influenced by his deaf neighbor, Laurent Clerc. Together they founded what is now known as Gallaudet University, the first institute of higher education for deaf people. ASL has changed significantly over time, especially in its vocabulary; however, it still retains much of its French influence due to Clerc’s input.
Why ASL is Important
The importance of American Sign Language (ASL) cannot be overstated. It is the fourth most commonly used language in the United States, and it is the primary means of communication for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
ASL is a visual-spatial language that is expressed through gestures, facial expressions, and body language. It is a complex and rich language that has its own grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. ASL is not a dialect of English, nor is it a pantomime; it is its own distinct language.
There are many reasons why learning asl online is important. For one, it allows people who are deaf or hard of hearing to communicate with each other and with hearing people. Additionally, it provides a way for people of all ages to connect with one another and build relationships. Finally, ASL helps to promote understanding and acceptance of people who are deaf or hard of hearing by hearing people.
In short, ASL is an important language for all sorts of reasons. If you have not already done so, we encourage you to learn ASL yourself!
How to Learn ASL
American Sign Language is a beautiful language that can be used to communicate with people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Learning ASL can also be a great way to connect with the deaf community.
Here are some tips on how to learn ASL:
- Find a good ASL teacher. There are many ways to find an ASL teacher, including online classes, community colleges, and private language schools. It’s important to find a teacher who is experienced and knowledgeable about the language.
- Get involved in the deaf community. One of the best ways to learn ASL is to immerse yourself in the deaf community. There are many events and activities that cater to the deaf community, such as deaf meetups, workshops, and conferences. You can also find interpreters who can help you practice your ASL skills.
- Use resources like books, websites, and apps. In addition to finding a good teacher, there are many resources that can help you learn ASL. There are books, websites, and apps that offer lessons, quizzes, and games to help you master the basics of ASL.
- Practice, practice, practice! The best way to learn any language is to practice it as often as possible. Try to find opportunities to use ASL in your everyday life. You can start by using it with friends or family members who already know some ASL.
The Benefits of Learning ASL
If you’re considering learning American Sign Language (ASL), you may be wondering what the benefits are. Here are just a few of the reasons why learning ASL can be so beneficial:
- It can help you communicate with those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
- It can help you better understand the deaf community and their culture.
- It can make you more aware of body language and nonverbal communication in general.
- It can give you a new perspective on communication and how language works.
- It can be a fun and rewarding way to connect with others
Resources for Learning ASL
While there are many reasons to learn American Sign Language (ASL), one of the most important is that it provides a way for deaf and hearing people to communicate. It is a beautiful language with its own grammar and syntax, and it is the fourth most-used language in the United States.
If you’re interested in learning ASL, there are lots of great resources available.
Here are just a few:
The National Association of the Deaf offers free online lessons, as well as information about local events and workshops.
Gallaudet University, located in Washington, D.C., is the world’s only university designed specifically for deaf and hard-of-hearing students. They offer a variety of online resources, including ASL classes.
Sign2Me offers signing classes for babies and toddlers, as well as resources for parents and caregivers.
There are also many mobile apps that can help you learn ASL, such as ASL Tutor and myASL. And don’t forget YouTube – there are tons of great videos out there that can teach you everything from basic vocabulary to complex conversations.
Conclusion
Learning American Sign Language is a great way to open up new opportunities in communication, regardless of age or hearing ability. It is an incredibly versatile language that can be used virtually anywhere and opens up a world of possibilities for those who are hard of hearing or deaf. Plus, learning ASL can be just as fun as any other foreign language! Whether you’re looking to learn ASL out of curiosity, necessity, or both – it’s well worth the effort and time invested.
