Family  Sign  Language  ModuleFrequently  Asked  Questions

Overview of module:

Topic: The module “Family Sign Language” is designed to teach families of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children basic vocabulary related to home and family environment.

Environment: The module is designed to be used within a Sign Language class and used as a resource for extra practice after receiving the guidance of an American Sign Language Instructor. The module is not intended to be used in isolation and does not assess the learner.

Content: The module contains 5 signs presented through the use of video. The content is presented as follows:

1. Slide one allows the user to choose a language of preference: Spanish or English. The slides that follow will be written in the language of choice.

2. An introductory video shows the user the word, the image and a video of the sign. Each sign is repeated twice. The videos can be replayed as often as needed.

3. Flex your fingers provides the user with an opportunity to stretch and work their fingers and prepare for the sign practice that follows.

4. Practice slides allow the user to view the image of the handshape they need to form to create the sign then a video that shows the sign.

5. Drag and drop activities ask the user to view the sign and decide which word matches the sign they viewed.

6. ”Who is in the picture” presents a new signer with new images. The user will be asked to interpret what the signer said and type the name of the family member in the text box.

Question: How will the learners access the module?

Answer: The module is accessed using the link provided by the instructor. The learners will need a desktop or laptop computer. Mobile devices are not recommended for compatibility and viewing purposes.

Question: How will the learners navigate through the module?

Answer: The learner is asked to select their language of choice on the initial slide once they enter the module. Once they choose the language of choice, there is a forward and back button that allows the user to navigate through the module and return to pages as needed for practice. At the end of the module, the learners can return to the starting page by clicking on “Return to the beginning.”

Question: What are the benefits of using the module during classroom instruction?

Answer: When faced with families that a variety of language needs and abilities, the module allows for personalized learning opportunities. It allows the instructor to create stations for direct instruction while the remaining class members practice American Sign Language using the module.

Research shows that learning a new language that requires a new articulatory system (use of hands) is often challenging for new learners. The module will provide a safe environment where the learners can practice using sign language that might not be comfortable for them to use in front of a large group. Multiple exposure and opportunities will promote learning.(Hilger, Loucks, Quintos-Pozos, & Dye, 2015)

Question: How can this module benefit Deaf and Hard of Hearing children and their families?

Answer: When families are able to communicate with their child consistently, they enable their Deaf or Hard of Hearing children to learn throughout their lifespan by providing them with a strong language foundation. “Proficiency in American Sign Language has been shown to positively influence spoken language development and the development of English literacy in Deaf students.” ("Advantages of Early Visual Learning," 2011) which reflects the need for parents of Deaf and Hard of Hearing children to be able to communicate effectively with their child.

Resources:Advantages of Early Visual Learning. (2011). Visual Language and Visual Learning, 1-6. Retrieved May 13, 2016, from http://vl2.gallaudet.edu/files/4613/9216/6279/research-brief-2-advantages-of-early-visual-language.pdf

Hilger, A., Loucks, T. M., Quintos-Pozos, D., & Dye, M. W. (2015, July 15). Second language acquisition across modalities: Production variability in adult L2 learners of American Sign Language. Retrieved May 13, 2016, from http://eds.a.ebscohost.com/eds/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?sid=19b7c5d2-f9f6-4835-a7fc-a48912b6601e%40sessionmgr4005&vid=3&hid=4108

Module content resources:

Still Images:"Sign Language." Sign Language (ASL) Alphabet by Dr. Bill Vicars. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 June 2016.

Images used in sign language videos:Ward, Susan. "Lesson One: Family." N.p., Jan. 2016. Web. 27 May 2016.

Sign Language videos:"Sign for TRANSLATE | ASL Sign Language Video Dictionary." N.p., n.d. Web. 27 May 2016.https://www.signingsavvy.com/sign/TRANSLATE/5810/1

"ASLPro.com Home." N.p., n.d. Web. 27 May 2016.http://www.aslpro.com/