When you hear ASL or see ASL, what is the first thing you see? Most people may have no idea what it means. ASL stands for American Sign Language. Many hearing people are beginning to learn this language for a variety of reasons. I personally learned a few words and phrases from my sister when she was in college. From that I became inspired to learn, so I took a few classes at my college. I so want to learn more, and am looking into it and I want to encourage others to learn. Here are some reasons you should consider learning ASL.

Why should I learn American Sign Language? First learning ASL has personal, educational, and career benefits. It creates the possibility for meeting deaf people. Careers with ASL are fast growing and are expanding nationwide. Knowing ASL can even earn you promotions in certain career fields. Studying American Sign Language helps improve the understanding of the English language.

Where could I see ASL being used? Sign language is used throughout the world. Each country has a sign language unique to their spoken language. A lot of parents recently have been using baby sign language. Baby sign is the use of manual signing allowing infants and toddlers to communicate emotions and desires before they are able to speak. We see interpreters at different events we attend. They are used to help communicate between hearing and deaf communities. Some people are even using ASL to communicate with their animals. For example: they use the sign for "sit" to get animals to sit down, or have them obey certain commands with certain hand gestures.

Where can one learn? I starting learning ASL with my sister, but took classes once I got to college. There are a variety of places to learn: you could go to a school, a community center, a local church, the list goes on. You can improve your skills by signing with your friends who know ASL or a deaf person you may know. Generally, people who know ASL are patient and kind about showing new signers different signs or correcting your signs and they will slow down so it is easier for you to understand. They are willing to repeat things if needed.

What if I don't have time to learn? I totally understand. Not everyone has the time to sit down and learn a new language. It takes a lot of time, effort, and commitment. You can always go online and look up the signs of some words you would like to learn. Or you can learn the alphabet; this way you can finger spell certain words. Here is a picture of the alphabet for you:

If you get the opportunity to learn American Sign Language or take a course, take the advantage. You won't regret it.