Within the past decades, American Sign Language developed mainly through face-to-face interaction. Yet at present, a completely new signed word can spread like wild fire on social media platforms like TikTok or YouTube.
This article examines the transformations occurring in ASL, largely attributed to the extensive use of smartphones and video technology. As a result of these advancements, there has been a substantial increase in American Sign Language communications.
Primary Development Stages of American Sign Language
American Sign Language originated in the early 19th century at the American School for the Deaf (ASD) in West Hartford, Connecticut, through language connection with English. Since then, the usage of ASL has been extensively advertised by Deaf schools and Deaf community groups throughout the US and beyond.
In its early stages, French Sign Language greatly affected American Sign Language, but it was not standardized or formalized until 1817. The volume of ASL users today is estimated at 500,000, however it could possibly be a lot higher.
Methods of Learning ASL Now Versus Before
During the past decades, getting face-to-face instruction from teachers, tutors, friends, or family members was practically the only way to learn ASL. But at the present time, many options for studying the language are available, some examples are.
- Participating in a face-to-face traditional classroom setting
- Taking a web based virtual course
- Learning through online video tutorials
- Joining a Deaf club or an ASL group
- Going to a Deaf café
- Hiring a personal instructor
- Observing and mimicking interpreters
- Utilizing an educational software and
- Being trained by Deaf friends or family members
Regardless of what approach to learning ASL you choose, it's necessary to have fun and interact on a regular basis with other ASL users. Doing so will increase your language acquisition and facilitate your accessibility to the D/HoH community.
Impact of Phones on ASL
The phone has had a less remarkable influence on American Sign Language. Then again, when phones began to incorporate video technology displays (i.e. smartphones),this situation switched profoundly.
Impact of Video on ASL
Video has empowered ASL users to connect more easily and instruct the language to a lot more people. This also increases the possiblity to rapidly create and circulate new signs that mirror either modifications in technology or completely new methods of thinking and acting.
Impact of Social Media on ASL
Nowadays, thriving ASL communities can be found on YouTube, TikTok, and various other social media networks.
The Present State of American Sign Language
Shrinking of Signs
To fit the small spaces of cell phone and video displays, words typically signed with both hands might now be signed with just one. These particular changes only sit well with some ASL users.
New Signed Words
In the past, ASL changed by means of face-to-face interaction. At present, a whole new signed word spreads rapidly on social media platforms.
Preserving American Sign Language
No matter what challenges might arise as ASL grows, preserving the language for future generations is vital. Carrying this out can help safeguard Deaf culture and assure that Deaf/HoH people have access to their form of self-expression and communication in the decades to come.