Best ASL Classes NYC: Find Courses & Onsite Training

Learn More About NYC ASL Courses

What is ASL?

American Sign Language (ASL) is a complete visual language that involves using the eyes to process visual information conveyed through signs. Although the grammar and syntax in ASL differ from English, this language has the same linguistic properties as other spoken languages. In signing, the movement and displacement of the hands, accompanied by various body movements and facial expressions, communicate meaning and information.

One important component of ASL is fingerspelling, which is used to spell out English words. Each fingerspelled letter corresponds to a unique handshape. Fingerspelling is commonly used to communicate the English word for something or to indicate a proper name. ASL is the primary language used by many individuals who live in North America and are hard of hearing or deaf.

Sign language is not universal; each country has its unique sign language and, similar to spoken languages, various regions have different dialects. Like other languages. ASL continues to grow and change. Today, this language is used across the US and in some of Canada. Many high schools and colleges accept ASL to fulfill their modern “foreign” language degree requirements.

ASL wasn’t invented by a single person or committee. While the origins of ASL aren’t known, some experts believe it was created more than two centuries ago and originated from the intermixing of French Sign Language (FSL) and other local sign languages. Currently, ASL still includes these elements but has evolved into a complex language that’s distinct from FLS but uses similar signs. Today, there are approximately 10,000 distinct ASL signs, and this number doesn’t include elements like gestures, compound signs, lexicalized signs, or classifiers.

Why Learn ASL?

There are many great reasons to learn ASL. Not only is doing so a good way to connect with those whose primary language is ASL but studying this language, especially from an early age, can also be an excellent way to strengthen cognitive functions. Those who are bilingual with sign language enjoy many of the same benefits as they would from learning any other language. According to Neuroscientists, teaching a child a second language when they’re young can lead to better problem-solving skills, improved creative and abstract thinking, increased cognitive flexibility, better academic achievement, and heightened listening skills.

Children who study second languages like Spanish often have the chance to learn about various cultures where the language is spoken. This can lead to greater cultural awareness and appreciation. The same is true when studying ASL. Children who learn ASL early on often gain confidence in communication, which can lead them to feel more confident as they begin to use spoken words in their native language. In fact, recent studies have found that children who learn ASL have higher reading levels than others in their age group and 15-20% better vocabulary skills. Those who have been signing from birth also typically begin talking three months before those who don’t sign, and they use longer, more complex sentences.

The benefits of studying ASL don’t end in childhood. Research indicates that those who have been signing since they were children often have higher IQ scores than others in their age group. Early exposure to ASL has been linked to improved reasoning skills and a 12-point increase in IQ.

ASL isn’t only studied by those who are hard of hearing or deaf; it’s also a manner of communication for other individuals, including those with autism, who may find it challenging to communicate during moments of sensory overload. Other physical or intellectual disabilities can also make it hard or impossible for some people to communicate with verbal speech. Studying alternative forms of communication can be an excellent way to connect with those who struggle to communicate verbally. No matter what your reasons are for learning ASL, those who know how to speak this language can include this accomplishment on their resumes and LinkedIn profiles, which is a great way to improve marketability.

What You’ll Learn in an ASL Class?

The process of learning American Sign Language requires patience and practice but is very rewarding for most people. If you’re interested in learning ASL, you may wonder what coursework looks like. Enrolling in an ASL class in New York City is an excellent opportunity to learn this language’s unique grammar and syntax. Coursework is available in NYC for those who are new to ASL, as well as those who have had previous exposure and are looking to fine-tune their skills. Beginner-level programs typically include sign language fundamentals, such as handshapes, vocabulary, syntax, facial expressions, and various phrases, each of which is necessary to take part in signed conversations. Students also become familiar with fingerspelling techniques.

In intermediate-level ASL classes, students progress from basic vocabulary, syntax, and grammar into more complicated signing skills. These programs cover topics like sentence styles, temporal sequencing, and pluralization. Students may also work with measurable expressions like classifiers, role shifts, and spatial referencing. Advanced-level ASL classes progress into more rigorous training, which involves enhancing narrative skills, crafting complex dialogues, and acquiring fluidity with numbering and fingerspelling. Students may have the opportunity to explore ASL literature as well, which provides an excellent way to improve storytelling skills, expand sign vocabulary, and promote fluency. In addition to signing, most ASL coursework also provides training in receptive skills and culturally related information. Students also have the chance to explore Deaf culture, life, and literature.

How Long Will it Take to Learn ASL?

The length of time it will take to fully learn ASL depends on several factors, such as the individual’s learning style and method of training, their reasons for learning ASL, and the level of proficiency they ultimately hope to acquire. On average, it takes most people between three months and one year to learn the basics and eight years or longer to acquire fluency. Individual signs are typically considered relatively easy to learn. Most learners can become familiar with enough basic signs and use them in conversation after about a year.

It’s important to remember that the ease of language acquisition varies from one person to another. Some may find that they learn signs faster than others do. During the learning process, it’s essential to continue practicing and have patience that the effort will pay off. One excellent way to expedite the ASL learning process is to enroll in a training program. Not only do these classes provide real-time instruction and in-the-moment guidance, but they also offer a supportive community of learners to converse with. This can make it much easier for most learners to learn ASL and converse in this language rather than attempting to do so on their own.

What are the Advantages of Taking an ASL Class?

American Sign Language is an expressive and beautiful form of communication that’s used by upwards of half a million people in the US. Even though online resources like self-paced classes and tutorials have made it easier than ever before to discover the basics of this language, there are several compelling reasons why live training is a far more effective way to study ASL. It’s challenging to learn any language in a vacuum, apart from others. ASL is no different. Enrolling in an in-person or live online ASL class in New York City is an excellent way to study this increasingly popular language in a supportive and engaging environment modeled around conversation.

One of the most challenging aspects of learning ASL is ensuring that the correct movement, classifier handshape, and orientation are being properly used and combined. Those who are new to this language likely won’t be able to tell for themself whether they’re correctly executing these actions. This is where an instructor comes in. The instructor and other students in an ASL course can observe and offer constructive feedback intended to help. This type of feedback is essential, especially early on in ASL studies, and isn’t possible when studying this language independently.

Another benefit of enrolling in an ASL class is that some programs provide learners with the opportunity to fully immerse in a deaf space. Some programs are composed in part (or completely) of deaf peers and instructors, which can create a supportive space for students to experience full immersion in their studies. This type of environment is also a great way to be fully exposed to ASL nuances like body language and facial expression and learn about the deaf culture. Those who enroll in live training also have the chance to form connections with other students, which can lead to lasting friendships and even the opportunity to find a buddy with whom to practice.

Best ASL Classes in NYC

Interested learners can search for ASL classes in NYC to find the best learning options for their needs. Coursework is available in or near the city for those who are just getting started with American Sign Language, as well as those who already speak this language and want to take their skills even further. These immersive, supportive classes provide foundational training in topics like basic ASL grammar and syntax, fingerspelling, and cultural sensitivity. Coursework is available for learners of all ages, from six years old to adults.

Introduction to American Sign Language is offered by Borough of Manhattan Community College for those interested in learning the basics of this visual language. Those who attend this class are taught to keep their voices off and their eyes open while practicing repetitive visual skills and other productive skills. This standard introductory course is open to those who are new to ASL and to those who have prior experience with this language and want to fine-tune their skills. Participants explore ASL fundamentals, including handshapes, vocabulary, facial expressions, semantics, syntax, and phrases, which are necessary tools for participating in signed conversations. This program is also a great way to prepare for future ASL classes. This class is available in person in NYC.

Those interested in learning sign language basics can do so in York College CPE’s American Sign Language Beginner class. Participants in this introductory-level class become familiar with the basics of the third-most used language in the world. Those enrolled practice the manual alphabet, learn basic vocabulary, and receive instruction on the skills needed to communicate. Two textbooks are required as part of this program:A Basic Course in Sign Language (spiral) 2nd edition, and A Loss for Words, by Lou Ann Walker. Instruction is available in person in New York City.

Conversational Class is offered by the Sign Language Center for those interested in learning how to converse using ASL. Participants in this program use a “natural” conversation mode, which is intended to increase fluency. This course places heavy emphasis on techniques for telling clear, coherent, and interesting stories that are also culturally appropriate. Those who haven’t attended a prior class with the Sign Language Center will need to complete a placement interview before they enroll. For an additional fee, students can request the e-notes from this class. This class is offered in person in New York City.

The Sign Language Center also has advanced-level ASL courses available for those looking to fully master this language. Its Level 4 ASL is a good learning option for those interested in building on their prior conversation skills and advancing their ASL skills. This class begins with instruction on identifying countries and how to use classifiers to describe traveling around the world. Students also explore terminology for money. Participants work with classifiers to weave stories that focus on ASL’s grammatical features. In Level 5 ASL, those enrolled take their sign language training even further. This class offers instruction on advanced syntax and grammar. It also introduces semantics that focus on topicalization, distributional aspects, and conjunctions. In Level 6 ASL, learners fully immerse themselves in the world of Deaf culture. This class combines the skills learned in levels 1-5. Students explore various ASL media, including vlogs, films, Deaf humor, education, and social events. By the end of this class, participants will be familiar with deaf slang and idioms used in ASL dialogues. Graduates leave with fluency in expressive signing. Each of these courses requires participants to take a placement interview if they have not taken prior coursework with the Sign Language Center.

In the Fingerspelling Workshop, which is also available from the Sign Language Center, participants become comfortable with fingerspelling. This intensive workshop is intended to help learners develop skills for how to use their faces in a manner that’s grammatically correct in ASL. Those enrolled are also encouraged to become more aware of their own facial expressions. All learners have the chance to practice and have their techniques reviewed. This program is intended for beginners to advanced learners interested in improving the production, reception, and articulation of their fingerspelling.

Intro to American Sign Language (ASL) is available from Q.E.D. for learners who want to explore the basic vocabulary and components of American Sign Language. This short course also provides an overview of deaf culture, which is taught by a hearing child of deaf adults. Students learn the ABCs and basics of finger spelling, as well as why deaf culture sometimes uses a capital “D” and other times a lowercase “d.” Those enrolled also learn how to communicate using their bodies, hands, and facial expressions. By the end of the class, students will know how to spell their names and will acquire their own “name sign.” Students can keep the laminated reference card that’s provided and can use it to practice at home. This class is taught in person in Astoria.

Live Online ASL Classes

In addition to in-person ASL training options, live online ASL classes are also available for those looking to learn this popular language. Each of these programs provides students with access to a live instructor and real-time guidance and support. Instead of having to commute across NYC or battle rush-hour traffic to attend class, all participants can learn from the comfort of their own space.

ASL Total Beginner is an introductory-level class available from ABC Languages SF that’s intended for those who are just getting started with ASL. From the first class meeting, students are guided to begin using ASL, and the instructor provides them with the necessary tools to comprehend and remember the language. Those enrolled in this program have varying goals; some wish to acquire basic training for immediate use, whereas others want to learn ASL for long-term use. By the end of this program, students can opt to add more weeks to their coursework and continue on in the class for future instruction. This is a remote course taught using Zoom.

Los Angeles City College offers American Sign Language, Level 2 for those who want to unlock their potential signing skills. This program begins with an overview of the basic language structure used in ASL. Participants also explore Deaf culture through engaging and interactive activities. This class also prepares students to work with fingerspelling and contextualizes its use in Deaf culture. Those enrolled learn expressive and receptive skills to convey meaning in ASL and explore how to use facial grammar. Interesting facts about Deaf culture and community are also provided for students. This class requires all participants to purchaseAmerican Sign Language Workbook: Exercises to Build Your Signing Vocabulary, which will be used in the course. Students should have a microphone installed on their device to attend this remote course.

Children interested in learning ASL can do so by enrolling in American Sign Language for Youth (Ages 8-16), which is also available from Los Angeles City College. This remote class teaches participants ASL basics and provides an overview of Deaf culture, which students explore through guided activities. This fun and engaging class also teaches children how to fingerspell, use facial grammar, and apply expressive and receptive skills to convey meaning in ASL. Interesting facts about the Deaf community and culture are also provided. Those enrolled will need to purchase American Sign Language Workbook: Exercises to Build Your Signing Vocabulary.

Another Los Angeles City College course available for aspiring learners who want to study ASL is American Sign Language for Adults. This program is intended for those who want to learn how to sign but aren’t quite sure where to start. Students receive instruction on Deaf culture and the language structure of ASL through guided activities. Coursework includes training in fingerspelling, facial grammar, and techniques for communicating more clearly and accurately with ASL. An email will be sent to all participants to instruct them on how to attend this online class.

Those interested in introductory-level instruction in American Sign Language can gain immersive training by enrolling in Wagner College Lifelong Learning’s American Sign Language - Beginner (Ages 9-16). This program covers the fundamental grammar and vocabulary used in ASL. Introductory-level instruction is provided on the essential communication skills needed to interact with people who are deaf. This is a fully online course that’s taught in Zoom. Participants must have access to a microphone to attend.

American Sign Language: Module 1 is offered by Continuing Professional Studies at Bank. This beginner-friendly class incorporates an immersion approach to communicating with deaf persons. This class also prepares students to use ASL as an alternative means of communicating with hearing children who have language disorders or are speech-delayed with spoken English. The sessions in this program focus on various aspects of Deaf culture and the full potentiality of ASL communication. Opportunities for lab practice will also be built into this class. This program is taught remotely with a live instructor.

Adult American Sign Language is another excellent remote learning option for those looking to learn sign language. This introductory-level program is available from New York City College of Technology. Those enrolled receive a basic overview of American Sign Language, with a focus on developing receptive and expressive skills. This course is taught in the remote environment by a live instructor. All learners should have access to a computer with a microphone. Additional information on how to log in and participate in this course will be sent to all who enroll prior to the first meeting.

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ASL Classes NYC

ABC Languages SF ASL | Total Beginner

Key Insights

Learn More About NYC 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 in NYC

Live Online ASL Classes

NYC ASL
Corporate & Onsite Training

Top Certificate Programs

Top Courses

Top Certificate Programs

Top Certificate Programs

Top Courses

Top Certificate Programs

Top Courses

ABC Languages SF ASL | Total Beginner

Key Insights

Learn More About NYC 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 in NYC

Live Online ASL Classes

NYC ASL Corporate & Onsite Training Noble Desktop

NYC ASL
Corporate & Onsite Training