Time to Learn ASL, It’s Pretty Handy
When I first heard that we would be doing a learning project my mind instantly went to American Sign Language or better known as ASL. I got very excited thinking about all the different directions I could go with it. Although, for a minute I took a step back and thought do I really want to make video posts of myself … I feel so unnatural and awkward in front of the camera. However, I did not want something as silly as being camera shy to stop me from learning a skill I have always wanted to learn.
My interest in sign language first started when my niece was born 10 years ago. I knew I wanted to communicate with her but unlucky for me babies don’t talk. I had to figure out a way that she could talk to me and that is when I slowly taught myself baby sign language. I still use it to this day (not with her anymore) but with other infants.
I want this learning project to be something that is going to be meaningful as well as beneficial to me as a teacher. I think it is extremely important to be forever growing and learning as a teacher. I believe that ASL opens doors of diversity for not only the teacher but the learners in the classroom as well. So without further ado, or contemplating I am going to DO IT!
My learning plan for ASL is to watch 1 YouTube video lesson a day. The two main channels I will be using are Learn American Sign Language: Lessons for beginners and Sign Language 101. Additionally I will be using 3 mobile apps that will support me through my ASL learning journey. ASL Study, ASL, and The ASL App. My current plan is to focus on one skill a day. I will attempt to practice this skill throughout the day using the mobile apps. At the end of every week (Sundays) I will create a little quiz for myself in order to see what I have retained. I am open to things not working and am fully predicting adjustments will be made. I will be documenting my learning progress through videos (Ya’ll are in for a treat with those ?).
I am ready to dig deep, learn lots and have fun doing it. Let’s get handy with it!!
Hi Julie!
I appreciate that you identified some reservations that you had about this project, but you decided to do it anyway! I often overthink things and struggle to make decisions when there seem to be a lot of obstacles ahead. I also agree with you, and think learning ASL will be really helpful for you as a teacher! Good luck with your project!
Messed up the first one…
Julie, I love your humour as you approach this task – the effort involved I’m sure will prove to be a handful! ? It’s so interesting how babies can communicate with sign language, it makes me wonder what else we are capable of!
Jokes aside, I think this skill will serve you and your students for years to come. From my perspective, I know how much relief I felt when someone had even the smallest bit of knowledge or understanding of the complexities around physical disabilities so I can imagine the appreciation your students will feel that you are learning this to better communicate with them. I’m excited to follow your journey!
Thanks Jenn, I try to hide my lack of blog experience behind humour so I am glad it came through! I am excited to share my learning journey with you! Let’s hope its a handful I can handle!