Library cardholders can now learn American Sign Language (ASL) for free in Transparent Language Online. ASL is the third most used language, after English and Spanish, and the fourth most studied language in the United States.
Created in partnership with Signing Savvy, the ASL course in Transparent Language Online contains 77 lessons covering fingerspelling, over 800 sign videos, and a series of Deaf culture facts. By the end of this 30-hour course, learners will build a good foundation in American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf culture.
Learners will start with the manual alphabet to learn the signs/fingerspelling for the 26 letters of the English alphabet. The remaining units focus on the most common, useful signs for beginners, ranging from greetings and conversation basics to numbers and food.
95% of deaf children are born to hearing parents, making access to learn ASL very important for those families. Deaf culture facts and myths are included throughout the course so learners can understand different classifications of deafness, how to be polite when communicating with Deaf people, and beyond.
American Sign Language is one of over 110 languages available in Transparent Language Online. Also offered are courses to learn English for 30+ native languages.