Learning American Sign Language (ASL) is not only a way to break through communication barriers, but it is also respected and seen as a skill worth having.
Sign language is not universal, and each country has its own version of the language.
There are currently more than 300 sign languages in use around the world. ASL is most commonly used in the United States and parts of Canada.
According to the Commission on the Deaf, there are more than 500,000 people in the United States alone who use ASL as their primary means of communication.
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Learning another language is a powerful skill, but it takes time and effort to master.
Fortunately, there are now many different tools available to help you learn ASL from the comfort of your couch.
There are many different resources available to help you learn sign language. (St. Petersburg)
If you want to learn ASL, consider these tips.
- start with the alphabet
- Simple lessons available using a smartphone app
- Take an ASL class
- Let's learn using YouTube videos
- maintain consistency
1. Start with the alphabet
When learning ASL, you need to start with the basics. The alphabet is the basic starting point.
Although you can't always rely on the alphabet when communicating with someone through ASL, it can be helpful if you come across a word whose symbol you don't know.
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In ASL, “finger spelling” refers to spelling out the word you are trying to convey.
Start your ASL journey with the alphabet, perfect it, and then move on to more complex teachings.
Read through the alphabet quickly, every day, multiple times a day.
In no time, this will start to become second nature to you and you'll be ready to learn more ASL.
When you start learning sign language, it's a good idea to start with the alphabet. (St. Petersburg)
2. Teach a quick lesson using a phone app
There are several apps you can download to quickly access lessons.
Some courses are free to download, but some content is blocked by a paywall.
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Some services cost money, but many offer free trials so you can see if you like them before you buy.
A quick search in the App Store will give you plenty of options depending on what you're looking for.
Some of these apps feature interactive lessons with instructors, while others act as sign language dictionaries.
Practice sign language on your own or with others to master your skills. (St. Petersburg)
3. Take an ASL class
There are many ASL classes you can take.
Community colleges often offer ASL courses for in-person learning. If you prefer to take classes from home, there are also many online classes and courses to choose from.
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Taking an ASL class is an effective way to learn a language while holding yourself accountable and staying on track.
Classes also provide opportunities to ask questions about ASL.
4. Learn using YouTube videos
YouTube can be a powerful tool when learning a new language.
There are many YouTube videos dedicated to teaching ASL.
Lessons are usually quick to complete and you can learn the language without having to attend classes.
There are many free videos online to help you learn sign language. (St. Petersburg)
YouTube offers videos for beginners that highlight the signs you need to know.
You can watch the videos over and over again until you perfect the skill.
5. Stay consistent
Practice makes perfect.
You need to spend time adapting your skills. Create a schedule and try to study consistently.
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Once you get the hang of it, try practicing sign language at home without watching videos.
Using classes and videos as a learning method is great, but you have to practice it.
