Should Schools Encourage the Learning of Sign Language?

Sign language, particularly American Sign Language (ASL), holds significant importance, especially in diverse educational settings. ASL, being the 3rd most used native language in the United States, is a language that deserves recognition and inclusion in school curricula. This article will explore the benefits of incorporating sign language into school programs and how it can enrich learners from various perspectives.

The Benefits of Teaching Sign Language

Learning any new language, including sign language, has profound cognitive benefits. It challenges the brain to develop new neural pathways, enhancing memory, problem-solving skills, and overall cognitive flexibility. By learning sign language, students can communicate effectively with a larger portion of the population, including those who are deaf, hard-of-hearing, or both.

Specific Benefits of Teaching ASL

Teaching ASL in schools can bring about a multitude of advantages:

1. Cultural and Historical Awareness

Integrating ASL into the curriculum not only equips students with a comprehensive language skill but also broadens their understanding of the Deaf community and its rich history. Through this learning process, students gain insight into the experiences of Deaf-blind individuals, fostering empathy and cultural competency.

2. Diverse Learning Opportunities

For students with learning challenges or struggles with traditional language acquisition methods such as reading and writing, ASL offers a viable alternative. ASL does not rely on the spoken or written word, reducing barriers for students with dyslexia, auditory processing disorders, or other learning differences. This inclusive approach ensures that all students can thrive and contribute to their academic and social environments.

3. Enhanced Communication Skills

ASL is a fully developed language with its own syntax, grammar, and structure. Learning ASL can significantly improve communication skills, including non-verbal understanding and expressive abilities. This can be particularly beneficial for students who may face challenges in traditional language-based communication methods.

Cases in Practice: School Implementations of ASL

Many schools have successfully integrated ASL into their curricula, recognizing its value in educational settings. For example, in my school, we have been offering ASL for over 15 years. Initially, we started this program in response to parental requests. Some parents sought an alternative to traditional language classes that were more challenging for their children due to learning issues.

This decision has had several positive outcomes. Students who struggle with spelling and written grammatical structures can benefit immensely from the visual and non-verbal nature of ASL. Similarly, students who have difficulties with sound reproduction and understanding spoken foreign language can also excel in ASL. These students gain confidence in their language abilities and can perform better academically.

The program has also attracted students who are already enrolled in French or Spanish courses. The unique nature of ASL often piques their interest, leading to a “double up” scenario where students can take both ASL and another language. This approach not only enriches their linguistic skills but also provides a more well-rounded educational experience.

Our school is located in Hartford, Connecticut, the home of the American School for the Deaf. This geographical advantage has allowed us to establish strong community connections, providing students with practical opportunities to apply their ASL skills in real-world settings. Moreover, several of our alumni have gone on to pursue advanced studies in ASL, becoming teachers, interpreters, and social workers, thereby contributing to the broader Deaf community.

Colleges and Universities Recognizing ASL

Interestingly, several universities and colleges accept students who have completed ASL courses for fulfillment of foreign language requirements. This recognition highlights the academic and linguistic value of ASL, further cementing its place in educational curricula.

For instance, many universities list ASL as an acceptable substitute for foreign language requirements, adding to its credibility and appeal. This acceptance acknowledges the language’s complexity and the skills students develop through its study, such as interpreting, cultural understanding, and linguistic proficiency.

In conclusion, teaching sign language, particularly ASL, in schools is a commendable initiative that brings numerous benefits to students. It not only enhances their cognitive abilities and communication skills but also fosters cultural awareness and inclusivity. By embracing ASL in our educational systems, we create a more equitable and enriched learning environment for all students.