Embarking on a Journey: Mastering American Sign Language (ASL) in College
American Sign Language (ASL) is a visually rich and expressive language that opens doors to a vibrant community and enhances communication skills. College ASL programs offer a structured and immersive environment to learn this unique language, providing students with the tools to connect with Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. Whether you're fulfilling a language requirement, seeking to expand your career opportunities, or simply passionate about learning a new language, ASL courses in college can be a rewarding experience.
Why Study ASL in College?
Learning ASL in college offers numerous benefits, extending beyond simple communication. It provides a deeper understanding of Deaf culture, enhances cognitive abilities, and opens doors to diverse career paths.
Fulfilling Language Requirements
Many colleges and universities offer ASL courses that fulfill foreign language requirements. This allows students to satisfy academic obligations while learning a valuable and unique language. ASL classes are often offered online and in-person year-round, including May and summer terms, making it easier and faster for students to fulfill their language requirement.
Career Advancement
Knowledge of ASL can be a significant asset in various professions, particularly those involving human services, customer relations, education, and healthcare. Being able to communicate with Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals can enhance your ability to serve a diverse clientele and create a more inclusive environment. The C.C.C. in American Sign Language (ASL) at Miami Dade College prepares students with basic ASL skills to communicate with deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals through expressive fingerspelling, signing, and conversational behaviors. Learning ASL and understanding deaf culture will greatly benefit individuals, diversifying their communication skills, particularly if they are planning to enter or are currently employed in the highly competitive human services and customer relations job markets. By earning this certificate, individuals will gain knowledge and experience in using ASL and, thus, be able to serve the deaf community and culture.
Personal Enrichment
Beyond academic and professional advantages, learning ASL can be a personally enriching experience. It allows you to connect with a vibrant community, appreciate a unique culture, and expand your understanding of language and communication. As Dr. Bill Vicars says, signing is a useful skill that can open up a new world of relationships and understanding.
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Cognitive Benefits
Learning a new language, especially one as visually oriented as ASL, can enhance cognitive abilities such as memory, spatial reasoning, and problem-solving skills. It challenges the brain to process information in new ways, leading to improved cognitive function.
What to Expect in a College ASL Course
College ASL courses typically cover a range of topics, including:
Basic Vocabulary and Grammar
Students will learn fundamental signs, fingerspelling, and grammatical structures of ASL. Emphasis is placed on developing expressive and receptive skills, enabling students to understand and produce basic ASL sentences. The specialized courses, with emphasis on sign language and deaf culture, provide instruction in the predominant sign language of deaf communities and are a complete and organized visual language that is expressed by both manual and nonmanual features.
Deaf Culture and History
Understanding Deaf culture is an integral part of learning ASL. Courses often explore the history, values, and traditions of the Deaf community, fostering cultural sensitivity and awareness.
Conversational Skills
Students engage in interactive activities and role-playing scenarios to develop conversational fluency in ASL. Emphasis is placed on using non-manual markers, such as facial expressions and body language, to convey meaning effectively.
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Technology and Resources
Many courses utilize online resources, videos, and multimedia tools to enhance learning. Some assignments may require the use of a webcam or DVD player. A laptop or tablet with a HD camera or webcam is needed to play or record video assignments. Note: Some assignments will require students to use a DVD player.
Choosing the Right ASL Program
When selecting an ASL program, consider the following factors:
Faculty Expertise
Look for programs with experienced instructors, preferably those who are Deaf or native signers. Their expertise and cultural insights can greatly enhance your learning experience. Miami Dade College's program uses evidence-based approaches to teaching ASL to ensure its methods are effective, and half of its faculty are deaf, native users of ASL.
Course Format
Determine whether you prefer online or in-person classes, and choose a program that offers the format that best suits your learning style and schedule. Note that some colleges offer a few sections of ASL 1 and 2 online (asynchronous) in addition to face-to-face formats.
Curriculum and Resources
Review the course syllabus and ensure that the curriculum covers the topics you are interested in learning. Also, inquire about the availability of resources such as textbooks, online materials, and tutoring services.
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Transferability of Credits
If you plan to transfer ASL credits to another institution, confirm that the credits are transferable. ASL credits are transferable from other accredited colleges and universities. For more information regarding the transfer of credits and credits by special examination, visit the college's FAQ page or contact the ASL Program.
Placement Assessments
Students who have prior experience with ASL may need to take a placement assessment to determine their appropriate course level. ASL courses at University of Minnesota may not be equivalent to classes students have taken at other schools. All placement exams are either held online via Zoom or on University Minnesota's St. Students who have taken at least two semesters or one year of American Sign Language in high school or a first semester ASL course at the at the college/university level, or have had a lapse between classes, should complete a questionnaire. At the end of the questionnaire, they will receive a link to self-schedule a date and time for their ASL placement assessment. Note that ASL placement results are valid for one academic semester, after which the placement assessment must be retaken. Students may not take the placement assessment again for 1 semester (4 months). Talk to your advisor about the number of language credits your program requires.
Tips for Success in ASL Courses
To maximize your learning experience in ASL courses, consider the following tips:
Practice Regularly
Consistent practice is essential for developing fluency in ASL. Dedicate time each day to review vocabulary, practice signing, and engage in conversations with classmates or native signers.
Immerse Yourself in the Culture
Attend Deaf events, watch ASL videos, and interact with members of the Deaf community to immerse yourself in the culture and enhance your understanding of ASL.
Utilize Resources
Take advantage of available resources such as tutoring services, online materials, and language exchange partners.
Be Patient and Persistent
Learning a new language takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself, celebrate your progress, and don't give up when faced with challenges.
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