Medicine Net defines sign language as, “A language that employs signs made with the hands and other movements, including facial expressions and postures of the body, used primarily by people who are deaf.”
How Many Types of Sign Languages Are There?
There are over 300 different types of sign languages used worldwide. However, the two most common type of sign language is the British Sign Language (BSL) and the American Sign Langauge (ASL).
Even though English is spoken in both these countries, their sign languages differ. Since there is no common sign language, many countries have adopted certain features from the American Sign Language into the sign language of their own country.
How Can You Teach Yourself Sign Language?
Are you wondering how you can teach yourself sign language for your own self, for your loved one, or simply to educate yourself? If yes, then we have a few tips for you.
- Enroll in sign language classes through online platforms or in your local town/community
- Learn by watching free videos on online portals such as Youtube or Vimeo.
- Join a community group of sign language, or join a club specifically for individuals who are deaf.
- Hire a private tutor to teach you the basics of sign language from A to Z. There are many private tutors who offer classes to individuals interested in learning sign language.
- If you have any friends or family who are deaf, you can ask them to teach you!
- Use an app at your convenience and learn on the go! Whether you are in the car, in the cafe, at University, or at your workplace. There are many apps available to teach you the sign language such as the ASL app, SignSchool, Marlee Signs, ASL fingerspelling, and Hands-on ASL.
How Many Deaf People Are There?
Over 5% of the world’s population is deaf, which contributes to a total of 360 million people globally. Whereas, approximately 600,000 people fall under the category of deaf individuals in the United States.
1 in 8 people (30 million individuals and about 13% population) who are 12 years old or older suffer from deafness either in one ear or both ears. About 2% of individuals between the ages of 45-54 suffer from some sort of hearing loss.
What Is the Importance of Learning Sign Language?
Learning and understanding sign language can prove to be a substantial asset for you to create awareness and develop an understanding of the deaf community.
Being proficient in sign language will help you to develop a substantial understanding of the deaf culture. You can use your understanding to promote acceptance, inclusivity, and diversity of the sign language amongst others.
