A Beginner’s Guide to Learning ASL: Courses, Tools, and Resources

A Beginner’s Guide to Learning ASL: Courses, Tools, and Resources

by Serena Clark

Table of Contents

  1. Why Learn ASL?
  2. How to Find ASL Classes Near You
  3. Best Online Platforms to Learn ASL
  4. Tools and Apps for Practicing ASL
  5. Essential ASL Dictionaries
  6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

Why Learn ASL?

Learning American Sign Language is not only learning how to communicate; it's learning how to connect and be more inclusive. Be it personal relationships, career building, or expanding skillsets, ASL is one great way to interact with the deaf community.

Gone are the days when it was difficult to find resources to learn this form of sign language. With the evolution of time, resources for learning ASL have grown immensely-from local classes to online courses and interactive apps.



How to Find ASL Classes Near Me

If you are searching for sign language classes near me, then the venue will depend on your area of residence and personal preferences. Here are some excellent options:

1. Local Community Centers
Community centers, such as Chicago Hearing Society, will more often than not offer face-to-face ASL lessons at all levels.

2. Community Colleges
Community Colleges Community colleges, such as Johnson County Community College, have low-cost ASL courses for adults. Many of these classes are credit-bearing classes and are designed for both the beginning and seasoned learner.

3. Libraries
Many public libraries offer free or low-cost ASL classes. Check out the DC Library ASL Program.

4. Deaf or Cultural Organizations
Check your local deaf center or cultural organization for face-to-face ASL classes in your area. Check out TLC Deaf.

These are good options for hands-on learning with experienced instructors.



Best Online Platforms to Learn ASL

The ones with tighter schedules or no local options can easily take the different online ASL courses. Here are a few standouts:

1. Start ASL
A great website with complete free and paid courses. It's ideal for complete beginners and goes right up to more advanced levels.

2. Gallaudet University ASL Connect
Learn from one of the most renowned institutions in deaf education. Their online courses are led by native signers.

3. Lingvano
This interactive app offers bite-sized lessons on everyday conversations.

4. Lifeprint
An amazing free resource that includes tutorials, dictionaries, and comprehensive guides.

5. SignSchool
This is a free website, easy to navigate, and it allows practice through lessons and games.

Online platforms give you the flexibility to learn at your own pace, anytime, anywhere.



Tools and Apps for Practicing ASL

Practice reinforcement is the best way to learn. These tools and apps make it so much easier to be consistent with your practice time:

  • Handspeak:
    A library of video demonstrations for thousands of ASL signs.

  • SignSchool:
    Includes a practice mode with interactive lessons and fun quizzes.

  • ASL Dictionary Apps:
    The ASL Dictionary App is an excellent on-the-go reference tool.

  • Games and Flashcards:
    Platforms like ASL Bloom and SignLanguage101 turn learning into an engaging activity.



Essential ASL Dictionaries

Having a trusted dictionary is key to learning any language. Here are some of the best options:

  • Signing Savvy:
    A comprehensive online dictionary with video examples and detailed explanations.

  • ASL Bloom:
    A visual tool ideal for quick lookups.

  • ASL Dictionary App:
    A convenient app for iPhone users, featuring videos for thousands of signs.

  • Lifeprint:
    A free, reliable resource for learners at all levels.

  • HandSpeak:
    This online dictionary includes videos and detailed guides for understanding signs in context.

 


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Are there free ASL courses online?
Yes! Platforms like Start ASL and Lifeprint offer high-quality courses at no cost.

Q2: How long does it take to learn ASL?
This depends on your dedication and practice. It takes 3-6 months of regular practice to learn the basic conversational skills.

Q3: Can kids learn ASL?
Absolutely! Many resources, such as Baby Sign Language, cater specifically to young learners.

Q4: What's the best way to practice ASL?
Join local ASL meetups, use online resources like SignSchool, or practice with native signers in person or via video chat.

Q5: What special tools do I need to get started learning ASL?
Not really. With free resources, apps, and online classes, you can begin learning ASL with just a smartphone or computer.

by Serena Clark
Learning ASL

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