Did you know that sign language is the third most common language in the world? It is used by more than 360 million people, and it is estimated that there are about 7,000 different sign languages. So why is learning sign language important for hearing people? There are actually several reasons! In this blog post, we will discuss some of the benefits of learning sign language. Keep reading to find out more!
The History of Sign Language and Its Importance to the Deaf Community
The history of sign language is exciting and vital to the deaf community. The first recorded use of sign language was in the 16th century, but it was likely used much earlier. The most well-known early sign language user was French physician Charles Michel de l’Epee, 1760, who established the first free school for the deaf.
Sign language is the first language of the deaf community, and its importance cannot be ignored. It allows deaf people to communicate with each other and hearing people who know sign language.
It is the main part of deaf culture that ensures that deaf people are part of society.
How Sign Language is Different From Spoken Languages
Sign languages are different from spoken languages in many ways.
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- One key difference is that sign languages are visual-spatial, while spoken languages are auditory-vocal. This means that sign language users communicate by signing with their hands and bodies. In contrast, verbal language users share by speaking with their mouths.
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- Another important difference between sign and spoken languages is that sign languages are not tied to any specific spoken language. This means that sign language can be used by people who talk about any language. In contrast, each spoken language has a corresponding sign language. For example, American Sign Language (ASL) is used by English speakers in the United States. In contrast, British Sign Language (BSL) is used by English speakers in the United Kingdom.
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- Finally, sign languages are not simply gestured systems that mimic spoken languages. They are complete and complex languages with their own grammar, vocabulary, and syntax. Like spoken languages, sign languages evolve over time to meet the changing requirements of their users.
The Benefits of Learning Sign Language for Hearing People
There are many benefits to learning sign language for hearing people. First and foremost, it improves communication with deaf or hard-of-hearing people. But sign language can also offer many other benefits, including:
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- Improved cognitive skills: Studies have shown that learning sign language can help improve memory, problem-solving and critical thinking skills in children and adults.
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- Enhanced social skills: Communicating in sign language can help hearing people build stronger relationships with deaf or hard-of-hearing friends, family members and colleagues. It can also break down barriers between different groups of people.
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- A healthier mind and body: Research has shown that sign language can help reduce stress levels and blood pressure. It can even help improve mental and physical health.
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- Career Progression: Sign language support in your career development also. If you have completed any course that is related to sign language, that will help you to find a job in this sector like school, NGOs and other deaf community-related work. So, if you want to work in Uk, join a British Sign language course with an everyday curriculum and use this in your future job.
Learning sign language may be the perfect solution if you are looking for an option to boost your brain power, enhance your social skills, or simply improve your communication with deaf or hard-of-hearing people.
How to Learn Sign Language
If you want to learn sign language, there are a few things you can do to make the process easier.
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- First, find a good teacher or program that can provide quality instruction. You can search google for your desired all BSL courses. Select your suitable courses, and learn more sign languages quickly.
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- Second, practice regularly so that you can build up your skills. You can use different resources to develop your fluency level.
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- Finally, stay motivated by setting goals, celebrating your progress, and being confident.
With a little effort, hard work and dedication, you can learn sign language to communicate with deaf people worldwide.
Resources for Learning Sign Language
If you’re interested in learning sign language, a few different resources can be helpful.
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- Find a local class or workshop. Many community centres and continuing education programs offer sign language classes.
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- Use online resources. Several websites offer lessons and other information about sign language. Some sites even have interactive features that let you practice what you’ve learned.
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- There are many books and videos available on sign language. These can be found at most bookstores and libraries and ordered online.
No matter which resource you choose, learning sign language can be a fun and rewarding experience!
Conclusion
In a world where we are so interconnected, we must learn to communicate with as many people as possible. Sign language is a beautiful and unique way of communicating that should be valued by hearing people. It can help us connect with the Deaf community and teach us about other cultures. Learning sign language is an investment in our future and at the end of a communication.
