As you probably know, the American Sign Language(ASL) is the dominant language used by the hearing loss community in Northern America, including nations such as the US and Canada. Users express ASL with movements of the face and hands, and several hearing people also use the language to communicate with the people living with hearing impairment. If you, your kid or a family member has a hearing problem, you might be wondering how they can access ASL lessons. Fortunately, there are several options to choose from when it comes to learning ASL; you only need to select one that’s convenient for you.
Here’s a list of common ways to learn ASL.
Enroll in online courses
You will be spoilt for choice when looking for deaf organizations and private tutors offering ASL lessons online. Nevertheless, you ought to look for a course that’s favorable for you and trusted by many students. Look for reviews to ascertain the reputation of an online ASL course provider. The key benefit of online classes is that you can take them while at home and at your own time.
Take in-person lessons
If you know about an educational center such as community colleges and centers offering ASL courses, you might want to enroll in evening or day classes, considering the convenience. Here, you will meet new people with the same challenge as yours and also be able to interact one on one with tutors. For a more personalized experience, consider hiring a private, qualified ASL tutor.
Watch videos
Web users are now turning to online videos to learn various things. Deaf people have not been left out since YouTube, and other video sites host channels targeted at ASL learners. You might consider buying ASL DVDs and watch videos at home. You can pause a video to practice some signs or even replay to understand better at the comfort of your home.
Scour free websites
Away from online classes and videos, there are several free websites enriched with educational materials for the deaf. In these websites, you will find finger spelling practices, workbooks, quizzes, and ASL dictionary that will guide you in signing different English words.
Utilize an ASL app
It’s now possible to learn sign language from your smartphone with the help of an ASL app available in major app stores. Some apps are free while others are paid, but you want to be sure that the app you download will of much help to you. With ASL apps, you can learn ASL at any time and from anywhere.
There are unlimited options for learning the American Sign Language, the standard language for the deaf in the US and Canada. Look for materials on free sign language websites, enroll in online or in-person classes, and invest in ASL DVDs and apps to understand ASL and know how to apply it when communicating with other people.
