How to Learn American Sign Language Online
Sign language is not a universal language. In the United States, deaf Americans communicate primarily through American Sign Language (ASL). Although ASL is used by people who read and write English, it is not a translation of the English language; it is a stand-alone language with an individual grammar and syntax (reference 1). Regional dialects and varying personal signing styles can also create variances within one type of sign language. Practicing ASL with another ASL user is the best way to gain fluency.
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Instructions
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Use Handspeak.com (see resources) to learn the ASL fingerspelling alphabet. Memorize all of the letters, from A-Z, until you can produce them on your own. Use your dominant hand as your fingerspelling hand.
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Develop your skills at reading fingerspelling by using the 'QuizMe!' section of ASLPro. Begin with the slow speed, working your way up through medium and fast as you become better. A hand will fingerspell a word on video. Read it and type the word into the answer box on the right side of the page. When you submit the answer, the next word will begin.
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Learn individual words using an online video ASL dictionary. Both Handspeak and ASLPro have good comprehensive dictionaries on their websites (see resources).
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Reinforce your signed vocabulary using ASLPro's 'QuizMe!' resource on everyday signs. A video will play of a person signing a word in ASL. From the choices on the right, select which word you think has been signed. If you are unsure, selecting '50/50' will take away two of the wrong answers.
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Study the Conversational Dictionary on ASLPro to learn ASL phrases. Pay close attention to word order, remembering that ASL sentence structure differs from that of spoken English.
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For further instruction, enroll in a Signing Online course. As of late 2009, there were four courses available at $49.95 each (see resources). The courses will help you to develop the ability to conduct conversations in ASL.
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Tips & Warnings
Practice regularly to retain what you have learned.
ASL is best learned from a qualified ASL teacher. You should supplement your online learning with an in-person course.
