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What is ASL?

American Sign Language (ASL) is the sign language most commonly used by Deaf and hard of-hearing people in the United States and Canada. It is a visual-gestural language, which involves the use of body movements rather than sound. People use their eyes rather than their ears to understand it. This language is not a visual representation of English; instead, it has developed independently and is a full language of its own. In fact, it is said to have more similarities to Japanese than to English. There is no universal sign language. ASL is widely used in the United States and Canada, while many other countries have developed their own forms of sign language.

Why Learn ASL?

Learning ASL can allow you to communicate with people who are Deaf and hard of hearing. The Deaf community includes hundreds of thousands of people in the United States alone, and when you know ASL you’ll increase your communication options. If you work in any kind of service-related field--such as teaching, law, or medicine--ASL can be a particularly valuable skill, since you’re likely to often encounter others who speak this language.

In addition, learning to speak and understand ASL is a way to contribute to inclusion and diversity. It’s a way to be a part of fostering the growth of a form of communication that is accessible to the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Learning ASL can also help you learn more about Deaf culture, and some of the challenges that this community faces.

What You’ll Learn in an ASL Class?

When you take an ASL class, one of the things that you’ll learn is fingerspelling. This is the use of hand movements to spell out words. It is a foundational concept in ASL. This language contains 26 different one-handed signs, which represent the letters of the English alphabet. You can use them to spell out words.

You’ll also learn about facial expressions and body language, which are essential elements of using this language and can significantly impact the meaning of what you are saying. Facial expressions and body language are used to provide more information about what you are saying, such as the emotion or intensity involved, or whether or not you are asking a question. For example, you can raise your eyebrows to show that you are asking a question.

Learning any new language--including ASL--can also help you develop empathy. When you communicate in another language, you need to make an effort to think about the perspective of the other person that you are communicating with so that you can get a better understanding of their intention and what they are trying to communicate to you. This can help you be more empathetic in general.

How Long Will It Take to Learn ASL?

The length of time it will take to learn ASL depends on the level of mastery that you’re hoping to achieve. Most people say that you can learn some basic skills in a matter of weeks, and get fairly comfortable using this language within a number of months. Mastering ASL may take a year or more. If you’re a visual learner, you’re likely to find the process easier. If you spend a lot of time practicing, you’re also likely to learn more quickly.

What are the Advantages of Taking an ASL Class?

One of the most important benefits of taking an ASL class is that you’ll be guided by an expert who can make sure that you learn all of the important skills that you need to know to master this language. In an article titled “Learning a New Language: Instructed vs Self-Directed Learning,” on the Medium website, an English teacher explains that when you learn a new language, if you don’t take a class you may end up missing important skills. She says, “We can compare instructed language learning to a puzzle where all the different pieces are necessary to complete it and without their mutual connection the puzzle will not be complete.”

Another benefit of taking a class is that you’ll have a specific curriculum to follow and goals and deadlines to meet. An instructor will tell you what to learn, and what homework to do. When you are doing something wrong, they will also let you know. If you try to teach yourself instead, you’ll need to be a lot more motivated and self-disciplined since you won’t have anyone but yourself to be accountable to.

Best ASL Classes

Depending on where you live, you’re likely to find a number of options for ASL classes. In Los Angeles, West Los Angeles College offers a course called American Sign Language. This class takes place in the school’s Westside Extension. It is designed for beginners. You’ll learn and practice finger-spelling and basic hand signal skills. You’ll also work on facial expressions and body language and movements.

Los Angeles City College also offers American Sign Language classes. If you already have some experience with this language, you might be interested in American Sign Language Level 2. This course is focused on both communication and comprehension. Students will learn grammatical skills in American Sign Language. They will also learn about Deaf culture and community.

In New York City, the Sign Language Center runs American Sign Language classes. Level 1 ASL is a beginner-level class. It is a multi-week course where you’ll learn about ASL and Deaf culture. In this class, you’ll work on vocabulary, syntax, and grammar. You’ll learn numbers, finger spelling, and start using space and gestures. Students are required to purchase $25 E-notes for this class.

Another New York City option is Introduction to American Sign Language, offered by the Borough of Manhattan Community College. This is a beginner class. Students will practice both visual and productive skills. The class covers ASL fundamentals, including facial expressions, handshapes, vocabulary, semantics, and syntax. Students will learn many phrases so that they can participate in signed conversations.

In Chicago, the Chicago Botanic Garden offers a course called American Sign Language for Gardeners. This class is taught by Justin LeBlanc. Students will learn the basic ABCs and how to sign an introduction. They will also learn many vocabulary words that are related to the garden. The class is designed to give students some ASL basics as well as the signs for many of the things they will encounter in the garden.

Live Online ASL Classes

ABC Languages offers a number of live online classes including ASL Total Beginner. You can use this class to prepare for a specific situation or to begin a long-term learning process. The class is designed for students who don’t have any experience with American Sign Language. At the end of the class, you’ll have the option to add additional weeks to your program. There is a required text for this class: E-Z American Sign Language (Barron's Easy Way) Fifth Edition.

The Sign Language Center also runs online American Sign Language classes. Level 2 ASL is designed for students who already have some experience with this language. In this multi-session course, you’ll learn more ASL skills, while also applying those skills to real-life situations. Covered topics include numbers, spatial referencing, fingerspelling, visual discrimination, and the use of space and gestures. You’ll also learn about grammar and Deaf slang and idioms. In addition, there will be discussions about Deaf history.

Another live online option is through Los Angeles City College. One of this school’s offerings is a class called American Sign Language for Adults. This class is intended for beginners who have no experience with American Sign Language. You’ll learn about American Sign Language and fingerspelling. You’ll also learn how to use facial grammar and expressive and receptive skills. In addition, the instructor will share facts about the Deaf community and culture.

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Featured Classes from Noble Desktop

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Featured Classes from Noble Desktop

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Featured Classes from Noble Desktop

Top Certificate Programs

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ASL Classes Near Me

ABC Languages SF ASL | Total Beginner

ABC Languages SF ASL | Total Beginner

Learn More About ASL Courses

What is ASL?

Why Learn ASL?

What You’ll Learn in an ASL Class?

How Long Will It Take to Learn ASL?

What are the Advantages of Taking an ASL Class?

Best ASL Classes

Live Online ASL Classes

ASL
Corporate & Onsite Training

ASL Training Map & Top Locations

Top Certificate Programs

Top Courses

Top Certificate Programs

Top Certificate Programs

Top Courses

Top Certificate Programs

Top Courses

ABC Languages SF ASL | Total Beginner

ABC Languages SF ASL | Total Beginner

Learn More About ASL Courses

What is ASL?

Why Learn ASL?

What You’ll Learn in an ASL Class?

How Long Will It Take to Learn ASL?

What are the Advantages of Taking an ASL Class?

Best ASL Classes

Live Online ASL Classes

ASL Corporate & Onsite Training Noble Desktop

ASL Training Map & Top Locations

ASL
Corporate & Onsite Training