Entering the world of ASL will radically change your perspective of understanding communication and language. ASL is a rich tapestry of visual and spatial expressions; a physical embodiment of words, concepts and ideas. It offers an intriguing departure from the auditory/verbal-based languages that dominate the majority of the world. The undertaking of learning ASL will equip you with a unique perspective while challenging and expanding your preconceived notions of just what is a language.
Learning ASL is a completely immersive experience. It is more than just learning signs. It is a pathway into a vibrant culture, a community with its own values, jokes, cultural norms. The cultural immersion alone will foster a much deeper appreciation for the diversity and variance of human expression and communication. It reveals the many ways in which communities connect and interact without the need of spoken words.
Engaging with the Deaf/HoH community helps students become more attuned to the many nuances of non-verbal communication. It sharpens their observation skills and enhances their ability to communicate much more effectively in many aspects of their lives. The new awareness crosses the boundaries of the Deaf world. It will influence a learner’s interactions within the hearing world. Learning ASL will encourage a more inclusive mindset and a reconsideration of how all spaces and services can be more accessible to all people, regardless of hearing status.
The importance of visual/spatial intelligence is often understated. The experienced perspective shift will highlight how relying on different senses outside of our hearing can lead to a more nuanced, richer understanding of the world around us. Through ASL, students will discover that communication is not simply the exchange of information between parties. It is an art that encompasses a wide range of human experiences, emotions, and traits.
Essentially, the pathway to mastering ASL is not only an educational undertaking. It changes how we interact; not just in our own communities, but with the world around us. It is a transformative experience that changes our overall understanding of community, culture, and communication.