Can You Learn Japanese and American Sign Language at the Same Time?

Yes, you can indeed learn Japanese and American Sign Language (ASL) at the same time. Whether you want to attain conversational fluency, reading, or writing skills, with the right approach, you can manage both languages effectively.

Setting Clear Goals

The first step is to set clear goals for each language. Define what you want to achieve with Japanese and ASL. Whether it's conversational fluency, reading, or writing, having a specific target will help you stay focused and motivated.

Create a Schedule

Designate specific times for each language to avoid confusion. For instance, you might study Japanese in the mornings and ASL in the afternoons. Consistent study times can help you maintain a balanced approach to learning both languages.

Utilize Different Resources

Leverage a variety of learning materials for each language. For Japanese, consider textbooks, apps, and videos. For ASL, use online courses, community classes, and videos. Diverse resources can make learning more engaging and effective.

Practice Regularly

Consistency is key when learning a new language. Even if you can only practice for a short time each day, make sure you do it regularly. Daily practice helps reinforce what you've learned and keeps it fresh in your mind.

Engage with the Community

Joining language exchange groups or communities can greatly enhance your language skills. For both Japanese and ASL, these groups provide an opportunity to practice and immerse yourself in each language's culture.

Be Patient

Learning two languages at once can be challenging, so be patient with yourself. Everyone has a different learning pace, and it's important to adjust your learning strategy as needed. Don't hesitate to slow down or speed up your progress based on your comfort level.

Additional Considerations

Sign languages are languages just like verbal languages, with similar benefits and challenges. While Japanese Sign Language (JSL) and ASL are mutually unintelligible, they share many similarities in their movements. This shared similarity can make it easier to mix up the two without realizing it.

Learning time and complexity: Depending on your native language, the time required to learn verbal languages can vary widely. For example, learning closely related languages like French if you speak English as a native language can take up to 400 hours, while learning more distantly related languages like German can take up to 600 hours.

Complexity of simultaneous learning: Learning both Japanese and ASL simultaneously is possible but it's a more complex task. JSL and ASL, though having some shared elements, are fundamentally different languages. This means that learning both at the same time may require more time, effort, and mental discipline.

Conclusion

By following these tips, you can effectively learn both Japanese and ASL simultaneously. Remember, learning multiple languages is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. With clear goals, a well-structured schedule, and a supportive community, you can achieve your language learning goals.