Myrtle Said:

How difficult is learning sign language?

We Answered:

Depends on which form you plan to use.

Oddly enough, Many people I talk to think that sign language is a universal language and no matter where in the world you go, one deaf person would be able to speak to another deaf person. Reality, each language also has its sign language. Furthermore, depending on where you live in the states, there are different signs like there are different dialects and accents. However, those variations within english sign language (ESL) is not huge and should not be a problem

That said.... in the States, there are two / three generally accepted sign language.
1) English Sign Language (esl). This is the easier of the two because each word in a sentance has a sign and each sign is in the same order as an english sentance. Most likely in school this is the version that most teachers and interpreters will use and is not a bad way to begin to learn. If you are taking this as a credit for language requirements alone and do not plan to go on to acutally use it in real life situations, this is the version you should sign up for. Its an easy A, at least a B. I rarely heard of anyone getting a C.

2) American Sign Language (asl). This is the more serious version of the two and is more widely accepted version in the Deaf community. This version, however, is much more difficult due to sentance structure and overall dynamic.

There is more emotion involved, and not only the hands are used, but subtle cues such as eyebrows, mouth patterns, and body language will convey what you are trying to say. For example, the sentance "going shopping" as statement you would have normal level eyebrows, but as a question would have raised eyebrows. Oddly enough, this version's sentance structure is more like a spanish sentance. This version is more visual and dynamic in its use.

If you were to take a class because you actually have a purpose for using sign, this is the version I would recommend, because when you know this version it is easy to go to esl, when necessary, but it is harder to learn esl...then asl. Most importantly is the rule, if you don't use it you lose it. If you want to learn quicker or stay proficient, immerse yourself in the Deaf community. It is suprisingly large and a very tight knit community. We even have two colleges for the Deaf!

Take note: saying "I am deaf" or "I am Deaf" (capitalized "D") mean two different things. Take the class and find out why!

Overall, it is fairly easy to learn, but like any language if you dont use it, you lose it.

Bradley Said:

Can anyone give me information on learning sign language?

We Answered:

well websites and books in general will teach you some signs but not how to use American Sign language correctly. Videos are in general a little more helpful but don't replace actual classes. If you are just wanting to satisfy your own curiosity then try your library for free videos and aslpro.com. Just keep in mind the website is a good online dictionary but won't help you with grammar or syntax. Good luck

Floyd Said:

How can i get into learning British Sign Language?

We Answered:

Check private tuition....

they charge a lot of money though and there are many tests...

Unless you have a real reason to do BSL, then I would (if I was you) concentrate on the other studies and do sign language later in life.

If you are just curious about BSL then wait....

Kristen Said:

how do i find out about learning sign language in inverness?

We Answered:

This may be a little odd, but I may know, even though I live in Ontario, Canada :) I was in Inverness a few years back (you are so lucky to live in such a wonderful place BTW). There is a branch office of Deaf Action there (head office in Edinburgh). Maybe they have classes. If you go online to www.deafaction.org. you can find out.
I can't remember where the Inverness office is but I think near that big shopping centre.
Good luck, Cindy

Norma Said:

What is the best website for learning sign language?

We Answered:

http://www.aslpro.com/
Shows video of the sign.

http://www.lifeprint.com/index.htm

http://www.lifeprint.com/asl101/pages-la…
ASL syntax

http://www.ddeafworld.com/
I just found this website. It shows video clips and describes the sign.


I use aslpro the most. If you are wanting to learn the best way is to be involved with the deaf community.

Roy Said:

After learning SIGN LANGUAGE, what kind of jobs can you get? BESIDES being a teacher?

We Answered:

You can become an interpreter in legal matters or social services:
hospitals, courts, community services.