Learning Sign Language.

Deaf Services Queensland suggests students attending their classes for Australian Sign Language, Auslan, develops specific habits to enhance learning within the classroom.

Concentrating on the signers face and overall picture of conversation rather than the individual signs is an important part of active listening when engaged in a nonverbal language. Following conversations between others as much as possible is also necessary to remain within the focus of discussion. Participation in signed communication increases memory capacity and retention of signing skills. The bond developed between students within a class environment enhances learning as does signing before commencement of class and during breaks. Switching off English and voice allows students signing outside lesson time to familiarize themselves with the language and also with the cultural perspective of communication exchange in a nonverbal language.

Tomorrow I will write about active listening skills in nonverbal languages used by people who are profoundly deaf, hearing and or voice impaired. I will also write about the outcome of our Inaugural meeting for the Dystonia Support Group of Cairns. The meeting is tomorrow, Saturday 24th February, over lunch.

Sue Bayliss. Cairns, Australia.