A ten week Class in American Sign Language was held beginning in September and ending November. This was a great class and the people were very enthusiastic about learning the language AND about the culture of the Deaf, and their common experiences.
In addition to the instructor, Ceri-Jayne Hawley, other Deaf/HH people attended the class as observers. One hearing person assists Ceri-Jayne doing interpreting from time to time.
The Class learned vocabulary and culture and practiced improving their receptive skills. They learned about hearing loss and its affects on the personality, how it affects relationships, and various devices used by the Deaf community.
Sign Classes: 
Sign classes are for more than learning the signs. It is to learn the culture and to develop a heart of empathy for those who are Deaf. Deaf people do not want people to learn how to fingerspell, or to sign clearly. They want people to have a heart to embrace their culture and develop relationships with the members of the Deaf community. One of the worst compliments that a person can make is, "I want to learn sign language to sing and sign." This is a totally wrong motive for learning to sign and will alienate you from the Deaf community.
Courses should include:
For information about learning American Sign Language call 520-720-6035.
Original Page date -
November 20, 2002
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