How can I Learn Sign Language at Home?

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(Newswire.net — December 4, 2021) —

Learning sign language comes with a wide range of benefits. First, it allows you to communicate with the deaf community. As a result, you get the opportunity to work for the welfare of their community. Second, learning new languages is a great brain booster; therefore, learning to sign will be an excellent fuel for your mind. On top of that, if you want to work in a relevant industry, having a grasp of sign language can come in handy. And do you know what the best part is? You don’t even have to step outside your home to learn this language. Stay with this blog and see how you can learn sign language at your home also read CocoSign.

Types of Sign languages

Like every other language, sign languages differ from place to place. For example, in England, British Sign language is used while the Americans use Sign Language. Other than that, the location of the verbal language spoken there also influences the sign language structure. These languages also have their own alphabetical signs. Along with BSL and ASL, other widely used sign languages are Chinese Sign Language, French Sign Language, Indo-Pakistani Sign Language etc.  

 The 5 Core Elements of Sign Language

Even though the sign languages are not the same, there are 5 components that are common to every sign language. These elements are

1. Handshape 

In sign language, handshapes play a significant role. Each sign language consists of its own handshapes. However, there are some languages that share the same handshapes. 

2. Location 

Location shows the place where the sign is articulated. It describes the space where the movement occurs.

3. Movement 

Movement means how you are moving your hands. The movement takes place in between two different places of articulation. Sometimes there are additional movements of fingers or wrists; these are called secondary movements. 

 

4. Orientation 

Orientation is the direction your palm is facing.

5. Non-manual Components 

Other than the hands, upper body movement, eyebrows, facial expressions, eye gaze are also used in sign language. These features are known as non-manual components.

You have the basic idea of sign language. Now, it’s time to see how you can learn this language while sitting in the comfort of your home. 

Online Classes

An online sign language course is an excellent option for building your expertise in this area. There are many online courses available that provide primary to an advanced level of learning. These courses come in detailed lessons; therefore, it is easier to learn.  In addition, You can take online courses while sitting on the other side of the world. The best part about these courses is you can complete them at your own convenient time and pace. Most of the online courses provide 24/7 support service. So, if you face any problem or learning difficulties, you can easily find help. Some of the courses also offer a certificate of achievement after completing the course. These certificates can be highly beneficial if you want to pursue a career in the relevant sectors.

Home Tutor

If you want to become fluent in sign language, hiring a home tutor is the best way to do it. An expert teacher can give you a step by step explanation of the signs. The teacher will demonstrate the movement to you; as a result, you will be able to grasp them better. Along with that, you can ask questions and clear out your doubts. This process allows you face-to-face interaction, which is a very effective technique for learning a new language. 

Videos

Videos can be very helpful when it comes to learning. Through videos, you receive practical knowledge; therefore, you receive a clear understanding of the subject. You can find many videos on sign language on the internet. They are designed for all levels of learners. YouTube is the best place to find these videos. There are many YouTube channels dedicated just to sign language. You can subscribe to these channels and start learning. 

Furthermore, there is a wide range of pre-recorded videos that come in DVD forms. You can buy these DVDs and learn how to sign. Learning from videos allows you to pause and rewatch the lessons. As a result, there is no rush, and you can take as much time as you want. However, when it comes to videos, there are no options for asking questions; that’s why you have to figure out the answers yourself. 

Books 

Books can be another option for you. You will find many different types of sign language books in the market and the libraries. You can read the books and teach yourself how to sign. In a more practical sense, learning from books can be challenging. In books, you can’t see the hand movements; that is why you may get confused with the signs.