Learning Beyond The Sign

by Janeel Hew
(Hawaii)

Understanding the past, helps us to embrace the present.

Finally an online class, that teaches you that learning ASL means more than knowing how to bend your fingers.

We miss the colors of the rainbow when we are only able to see the black and white. If you are thinking about taking this class; please know that there is a difference between knowing what you learn and understanding what you know. I have only just started with this online ASL class. Yet, I already know that this is the class that I will continue with.

The past is a journey; not just events. Please take the time to read the history and culture that has been made available in these lessons. Having the insight of the included information, helps us to learn sign language in a way that allows us to not just go through the motions of signing, but also relate to the emotions of the this beautiful language.

If this is your first attempt at signing...please note that the fact that the practice videos are not in slow motion can prove to be a positive experience for you. If we only learn the correct movement of a word and never see the proper flow of it; then I would think that would be like knowing how to spell a word, but not being able to pronounce it.

Please correct me if I am wrong...Over the years; I have tried to learn ASL through books. Then when I would try to understand someone I would get confused. The flow of this language is so beautiful, and by taking the time to study the video lessons within this online class; we are able to learn how to understand what is being said and appreciate its beauty.

I have epilepsy, and at times I stutter...therefore, I am thankful for this class teaching with the natural movement of the language. When sign language is taught slow and broken down in steps of motion...I think to myself, "So that is what it looks like to stutter." It turns me off, makes me feel bad and takes away the true flow of ASL. Don't be too hard on yourself if you need to view the videos over and over again...I do! Even when I am sure that I know how to sign something...Knowing how is good, but I also need to understand and recognize what I see. We all learn in ways that are right for us...this class truly allows us to learn at our own pace...and our instructor won't get upset or tired of us asking..."Can you repeat that, please?"

Enjoy your journey, and try to remember...that when you half-step in the lessons of life, sooner or later you will have to take a step back. Embracing ASL is also embracing the past, present and future of the Deaf Culture.

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Learning Beyond The Sign

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Jun 18, 2010
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You Inspire Me
by: Janeel Hew

My Dear Michelle, It is your hard work, time and dedication to teaching ASL, that inspired me to write [Learning Beyond The Sign].

I thank you for your kind words...But most of all I thank you for your [love and wisdom] that you have put into this class. It is my hope that not only do others learn ASL but that they internalize and respect the Deaf Culture from which ASL was born.

Just as a Mother looks upon her baby right after birth, with love. I am in awe, of the beauty that pain, trails and triumphs, can bless our world with.

"Smile, It's Just Me, Thanking You."

Jun 18, 2010
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Wow.
by: Michelle Jay - Webmaster

Wow. Just...wow. This is such a fantastic post. I think everything you said is just so well thought out and so true. Thank you so much for sharing your insight. I think it will benefit a lot of signers. :)

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Learning Beyond The Sign

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Learning Beyond The Sign