tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91615771687611098382023-11-15T05:26:36.069-08:00For Hearing People Only: Reflection Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847529124514091102noreply@blogger.comBlogger4125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9161577168761109838.post-89345113335816947692012-12-09T17:45:00.004-08:002012-12-09T17:45:50.218-08:00Chapters 32-36<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Chapter 32<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
The ability to lip reading (more accurately
called speech reading) is one of the most common misconceptions that hearing
people have towards the deaf community. They think that all deaf people have
the ability to read lips which isn’t the case!
It’s actually a quite difficult thing to do! Speech reading is an acquired skill. Ultimately
it involves a lot of guesswork which I found rather interesting. Only 30% of all spoken sounds are visible on
the lips. Sounds like “b” “p” and “m” are nearly impossible to distinguish by
just watching the mouth. Nonetheless, for those that can speech read there are
still barriers present that hinder communication. Speech reading also involves
the face, eyes, and eyebrows. Nonetheless, it’s a very complex skill, and I applaud
anyone who attempts it! However, as hearing people it’s important that we don’t
assume that all deaf people are speech readers. As stated in the text, some
hearing people tend to over exaggerate or over enunciate their speech when
first meeting a deaf individual. They also tend to ask the deaf individual “Can
you read my lips?” and when they respond the hearing person automatically assumes
they can speech read. There are many
other ways to communicate with deaf individuals if you are unfamiliar with ASL.
Ultimately you can use a pen and paper, or even your palm to spell words! If you
are really interested in communicating with a deaf individual you will find a
way around the language barrier! Not only is this the case for ASL and English
but for many other languages as well! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b>Chapter 33<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
In the past, speech pathologists,
doctors, and audiologists have had a bad reputation in the deaf community. When
a child is first born, doctors and audiologists are usually the first ones to
deliver the news to the parents that their child is deaf. Audiologists then
make recommendations to the parents. Their words are usually carrying weight,
and come across lacking sympathy. They also tend to carry negative associations
rather than positive ones. If I was in a
situation where I was dealing with a speech audiologist like the one above, I
would dislike them as well! Therefore, I don’t blame the deaf community for
their beliefs towards these types of people. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Speech pathologists take up where
the doctors and audiologists leave off. The have the task of modeling the child’s
language. They teach them how to form
sounds correctly, differentiate their vowels, and control their breathing and
voice, and much more. Nonetheless, speech
training is very grueling and tiring work. For many children who participate in
speech training it can become very frustrating.
However, speech pathologists also looked down upon by some deaf individuals.
It’s important to note that they don’t oppose speech training, but oppose some
of their beliefs and strategies. One
thing I found completely shocking is that some speech pathologists have the
view that deaf children broken and need to be “fixed.” This is appalling to me!
Deaf children are no different than any other children. Everyone has strengths and
weaknesses. It just so happens that deaf children lack the ability to hear. Nonetheless, they can do anything that a hearing
child can do. However, not all medical professionals act in this way. Nonetheless,
it’s important that we move forward as a community and look towards the future!
<span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b>Chapter 34<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Among the deaf community lies the
debate of oral speech versus signing.
Some oralists tend to believe that career opportunities for speaking
deaf versus non-speaking deaf are better. This remains a questionable topic
today. However, I personally feel as if
a workplace shouldn't discriminate on any of these factors. If the individual is
capable of completing the task at hand, it shouldn't matter whether or not the individual
can speak or not. As I said before, if communication is really necessary there
are ways around the language barrier! People do it every day. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Before reading this chapter, I never
knew that deaf individuals could actually verbalize. My deaf cousin mainly
speech reads and signs. Nonetheless, if deaf individuals are comfortable with
verbalizing I see no problem with it at all! It’s important to note, that deaf individuals
can’t hear themselves speak therefore they may speak rather loudly during
inopportune times. But who are we to
tell them to not verbalize? Everyone has the right to free speech! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b>Chapter 35<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
As stated in the text, deaf individuals
have a wide range of speech skills. It’s important that we, the hearing
community, eliminate stereotypes. Some
deaf individuals have good speech skills, and other prefer to not use their
voice at all. This is a very controversial topic within the deaf community. As stated by the author: “If we don’t use our
voices, do we give hearing people the wrong impression? If we do use our
voices, are we opposing other deaf people?” As a hearing individual we should respect
a deaf person choice on rather or not to voice. Ultimately, it’s a personal decision
made by the deaf individual. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
One think I found interesting in
this chapter was when the text stated that some hearing persons don’t use their
voices in the company of deaf friends, relatives, or clients. I thought that
was really special. It also shows a sign of respect to the deaf individuals
around you! After reading this chapter, I've realized that there is more to
speech than just the ability to communicate.
There are multiple ways to communicate whether that’s with ASL or another
way. I think the author says it well when he says, “the spirit of communication
is far more important than the dogma of mode.” <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b>Chapter 36<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
All deaf individuals have the
ability to speak. However, it’s their
personal decision on whether or not to do so. In the past, deaf individuals
that “could not talk like a normal person” (as stated in the text) were stereotyped
as deaf-mutes or deaf-and-dumb. I find both of these stereotypes very offensive
towards the deaf community. A deaf individual that has chosen not to voice is
no less superior! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Some people in the community seem
to think that signing interferes with speech development. This isn’t true. It
is a proven fact that deaf children whose first language is ASL tend to develop
better speech than those who were given intensive oral training. Having a solid
foundation in a visual language makes it easier to learn another language. For
example, let’s say there is a child that recently moved from Mexico to the
United States. If the child has previous background knowledge about the content
being taught in English they will become more successful in learning the
English Language. This goes for ASL as well.
Nonetheless, language is transferable. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
It’s important to remain respectful
of the choices that deaf people make regarding speech. If they feel comfortable
voicing we should welcome them to use their voice whenever. However, if they
don’t feel comfortable we should be understanding and not push them into
something they don’t want to do. Nonetheless, deaf people who choose not to use
their voice live very happy and productive lives without it! I’ve come to realize
speech is not necessary to survive; it’s just a tool we've become reliant upon. <o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847529124514091102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9161577168761109838.post-10110366735896264822012-11-25T18:14:00.002-08:002012-11-25T18:14:49.803-08:00Chapters 22-31<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Chapter 22<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
I've always been curious about how
deaf individuals feel about signing in public and being approached by others.
Since ASL is visual language, deaf individuals signing in public have no real
way of keeping a conversation quiet unlike the hearing people. Hearing people
have the opportunity to whisper or lower their voice in public while deaf
people don’t have that luxury. While reading in this chapter, I read that deaf
people have to physically “hide” themselves to make a conversation private.
It’s crazy how many things we (hearing individuals) take for granted on any
everyday basis. From reading this
chapter, I've learned some very valuable information about when or when not to
approach deaf individuals. It’s
important to respect their boundaries just as you would with anyone else. The
same respect and privacy we give hearing people, should also apply to the deaf
we encounter. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Something I found interesting about
this chapter was the use of “name signs.” I've never heard of such a thing
before. As I read on in the additional
information section, I found out that it’s a sign usually given to you by a
deaf person that’s personalized, and distinctive. Pretty neat! <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b>Chapter 23<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
In my past experiences with the
deaf community, I've learned that they often ask a lot of questions. They are
very curious about your life, and want to know anything/ and everything they
can. Nonetheless, we had this discussion
in class a couple of weeks ago. Growing up as a deaf child can be very hard!
The miss out on a lot of things that hearing children do not especially if
their parents don’t sign. Because they missed out on so much as a child, it’s
important for them that they communicate as much as possible. For instance, a
deaf children growing up with hearing parents miss out on basic, everyday
conversations. For example, they may
never hear “How was your day?”
Nonetheless, it’s very important to them that they don’t miss out on
anything. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
As getting asked where I learned
ASL, it’s casually come up in several conversations. However, as I stated above
I feel like being curious is just a part of their culture. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b>Chapter 24<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
As a hearing individual, it’s
important to recognize and respect American Sign Language. As stated in the
text, ASL is one language that commonly belongs to the deaf community. As a hearing individual, you must think of
all the possibilities you have as a hearing person (not saying that deaf
individuals are any less superior). Nonetheless, we are able to communicate
more easily on a day to day basis. The deaf community can do just as much or
not more but face more challenges along the way. Because of these, some may be
more hesitate with hearing people learning ASL. Can you blame them? I can’t! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
As a new learner of ASL, it’s also
important of me to learn about the culture. Just like any other language ASL is
constantly changing. Therefore, it’s important we alter ourselves that of the
ever-changing language. As the example
in the book stated, it’s not any different than going to a foreign country and
learning their language. Ultimately, it’s a sign of respect! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b>Chapter 25<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
ASL students have trouble learning
English for the same reasons many non-native speakers have learning English the
first time! It’s a completely different language! As it stated in the text,
many deaf children start school without any real language at all! This was
shocking to me! Because they are deaf,
they missed out on the ever crucial “language bombardment” that many hearing
children face. During this time, children learn about language and begin to
imitate and produce it. One thing that I found shocking was that some parents
of deaf children refuse to learn ASL! Nonetheless, the parents don’t
communicate with the child whatsoever.
It really bothers me to think that parents could just ignore and not
make any effort whatsoever. It’s their job as parents to do anything and
everything they can for their children! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Before reading this chapter, I was
curious to know how deaf people read/ and write in English. However, I have
learned that many deaf people use “deaf English” to write. My cousin that is deaf writes using deaf
English; it is English mainly written in the ASL grammar syntax. On the other
hand, I’ve also met some deaf people that fluent in written English! Just as I
am learning a new language, they are too! It’s takes a lot of dedication and
time for a deaf individual to become fluent in both ASL and written English!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
In reading the Chapter, I also
learned about the overwhelming language gap many deaf children are facing in
the schools. I feel like this directly affects me in the future because of my
career choice. As a future teacher, it’s up to me to help these students become
successful! It’s up to me to accommodate these students, and give them the
necessary tools they need in the classroom. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b>Chapter 26<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Before reading this chapter, I
thought reading for enjoyment was a personal choice for anyone (including the
deaf). However, after reading I’m shocked to find out the many horrible things
deaf children endured in the past! For long periods of time the English
language was forcibly battered into the minds of the children. Ultimately, they
were punished for not succeeding! For generations, the library was used as a
form of punishment. For most hearing people, a library is a quiet, relaxing
place full of knowledge. However, for many deaf children the memories they have
of the library haunt them! They were also struck by therapists for mispronouncing
words! I don’t blame them for not finding reading enjoyable! The majority of
their experiences with the English language have been nothing less than
horrible! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b>Chapter 27<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
As a hearing individual, I never
realized the importance of closed captioning to the deaf community. Once again,
we take for granted the opportunity to watch television. Nonetheless, the deaf
community cannot enjoy television without the use of closed captioning. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
In the chapter, I learned about the
disagreement that is currently circling the captioning industry. Some people
feel it’s necessary for closed captioning to read verbatim the audio. Others
believe that the captions should be simplified. As of right now, I’m currently
on the fence about this issue. I can
honestly say I can agree with both sides! Advocates of the verbatim side argue
that it’s unethical and insulting to alter the wording. On the other hand, advocates for the
simplified translation argue that deaf individuals cannot comprehend some of
the vocabulary on TV. I do think it’s important not to treat deaf individuals
as less superior people! Therefore, I
agree with the supporters of verbatim captioning when the say it’s insulting to
the deaf individuals. Why should we get
the opportunity to receive more information via the TV just because we can
hear? However, I also agree with the simplified approach on some things. If it
ultimately allows for the deaf community to better comprehend what’s going on,
why would we not make the change? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b>Chapter 28<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
As a future
teacher, I firmly believe in the knowledge of literacy. It’s an important part
of learning for all students, deaf children included! In the past, my deaf
children attended “Deaf-only schools” such as the Hartford Asylum. Schooling at
the Harford Asylum was very tedious and demanding but yielded great results for
their students. If you were to compare schools today with the Hartford Asylum
there really isn’t a comparison. I believe that Hartford Asylum took more pride
in educating their students! Unlike schools today, the asylum had no modern
technologies, speech therapists, sport teams etc. They were ultimately focused
on learning with no distractions! As a future educator, I believe that there
such be a mixture of the two. The main focus should be on learning! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
I find the idea
of Charter Schools very beneficial for deaf children! It’s sad to say that many
deaf children in public schools get left behind. Many are mainstreamed into classrooms
were the teachers have no formal education in ASL whatsoever. Nonetheless, charter schools combine the best
features of deaf schools, with the idea of mainstreaming.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b>Chapter 29<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Many children that participate in mainstreaming
face great problems. Most of the time, they are the only deaf child in the
class, and face staff they are adequate in dealing with their needs. One alternative to mainstreaming is the use of
residential schools. However, these residential schools face many negative conations
among parents, and teachers. Nonetheless, these schools are suffering! They are
also facing budget cuts. Because of
these budget cuts the quality of their programs are diminishing! I agree with
the text when it states that closing all the state locals and rerouting the all
deaf the deaf students is false economy. I firmly believe that our government
should take action in strengthening our residential schools! As stated in the
text good residential schools have many advantages over mainstreaming. These
advantages include: professional staff, individual attention, everyday exposure to ASL, deaf mentors,
etc. Because of these advantages, it’s
important we get residential and state schools back on track! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Chapter 30<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
As a current ASL student, I think
it’s a good idea to learn as much about the language as possible! Before
reading this chapter, I already knew that the library would be a good starting
point. However, I was unaware of the Gallaudet Bison Bookstore. I found it very
interesting that the bookstore was a mail order catalogue featuring a wide variety
of books and multimedia. There are also many organizations that have websites
that offer insightful information! In
the future I plan on looking into these organizations in more detail <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b>Quiz (Chapters 16-30)<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
After taking the quiz, I was quite
surprised that I knew many of the answers! After grading the quiz I ended up
only getting one question wrong. The question that confused me the most was
question number 6: Since all ASL teachers in schools and colleges hold ASLTA certification,
it’s not really necessary to ask an acquaintance who their sign language
teacher is, except out of curiosity. Not
every ASL teacher is going to excel. Nonetheless, it may be beneficial for
someone to inquire more information about a certain teacher before taking their
class! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b>Chapter 31<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
This chapter greatly affected me!
As a future teacher is important that I know where to inquire more information
about the deaf if necessary! One
resource that I found rather interesting was the TDI Blue Book. I have never
heard of this before! The blue book allows you to zero in on a specific county
or state agency. For example, the blue book would allow finding local agencies
for the deaf right here in bowling green! <o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847529124514091102noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9161577168761109838.post-30858801436474060152012-10-29T19:37:00.001-07:002012-10-29T19:37:24.367-07:00Chapters 11-21 <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Chapter 11<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
I found this
certain chapter in the book very beneficial. As a beginning learner of ASL, it’s
important to know and understand the meaning behind certain signs. Before
reading this chapter, I had no idea that certain signs held so much history; for
example, the female and male signs. I’ve
noticed before that the typical female signs such as women, girl, mother,
daughter, etc are all signed near the chin and mouth. However, I found it very
interesting that these “female” signs resemble the tying of bonnet strings. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I
also read in the chapter about certain signs that are looked upon as racist. These
include the sign for African-American, Japanese, Chinese, Korea, and Polish. For
example, the African American sign represents a variant of the “Black Nose” (as
stated in the book). Something that caught me off guard about this particular
part in the chapter was the statement that “some African-American Deaf People
still prefer the old sign for black.” After reflecting on the chapter, I
thought about this particular comment for some time. Just like in other languages,
there are certain words that are no longer seen as socially acceptable.
However, some older generations of people still tend to use the words in
everyday speech. Therefore, they don’t see the need to change or evolve with
the ever-changing language. Nonetheless, American Sign Language is somewhat culturally
connected to other languages in that way. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Chapter 12<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
I found the
letter written by Tammy Kirk in the beginning of the chapter very courageous of
a young child. In the letter, Tammy
discusses her reasoning behind wanting to learn ASL. One sentence in particular
that she wrote caught my attention; “Even though they couldn’t hear, they were
the funnest people to be with.” From personal experience, I’ve noticed that
some people tend to have a negative stereotype concerning deaf individuals. They
seem to think that they are incompetent, and are not capable of portraying
emotion, humor, etc. However, in these past 3 months as an ASL student I have
learned that this isn’t the case whatsoever! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
After reading
the chapter in its entirety, I found this piece of information the most beneficial:
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->The important thing is to get into practice,
and, if possible, find someone who’s skillful in signing to practice with. That
makes it more fun. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify;">
I’m a firm
believer, that practice is the most beneficial study tool in becoming
proficient in learning ASL. I’ve learned
that practicing with classmates and deaf individuals in the community is more
helpful than studying alone! This allows for feedback and constructive criticism
that can ultimately help you in the future. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify;">
<b>Chapter 13</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
Before
reading this chapter, I had no idea that the “ILY” sign held so much negativity
in the deaf community. The main reason it’s looked down upon is because it isn’t
strictly ASL. It’s a combination of three letters of the standard alphabet.
Another reason is because it has become a visual cliché and has lost its
meaning. Just like the English language, people tend to overuse the word. Nonetheless,
I feel as if the meaning of the word, and its use have somewhat been translated
into American Sign Language. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify;">
One particular thing that I
found very interesting in the chapter was the part about Presidential Candidate
Carter. This took place in 1977 during the Inauguration Day walk down
Pennsylvania Avenue. President Carter chose to acknowledge a group of deaf individuals
by flashing the ILY sign to them. Ultimately,
President Carter was a very good man who tried to reach everyone in the community.
In the end, the deaf community greatly appreciated his effort. Nonetheless, I find his effort to be very
courteous. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify;">
Another thing that I found interesting
in this chapter was the statement that the “ILY” sign is arguably is the
best-known hand sign in the world. I have trouble believing that to a certain
extent. From my personal experiences thus far (even though they may be limited)
I have yet to notice the use of the ILY sign by a deaf individual. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Chapter 14<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I
feel like this chapter was somewhat geared towards me. I found the majority of
the information in this chapter very beneficial for future use. As an ASL student, I continue to struggle with
be able to read fingerspelling. I have been practicing on my own, but haven’t
shown much improvement. However, this chapter gave me a few ideas on how to
become better. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I found the idea that you can fingerspell a favorite
poem or brief prose item very useful. After reading this particular part in the
chapter, I began to use this method for practice. Nonetheless, it really does
help with the development of finger spelling. I also try and fingerspell when I
have any free time whatsoever. For
example, I’ll watch a TV show and pick certain words during the program to
fingerspell. It’s definitely really good
practice!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
Another thing I
found rather shocking was that manual dexterity is an important component of
fingerspelling. I never realized that the strength of your hand would directly
correlate with fingerspelling! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Chapter 15<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
As a hearing individual,
I firmly believe that everyone should learn at least the basics of ASL. For a deaf individual, ASL is there only way
of communication. Therefore, it’s important we at least know the basics of the
language to communicate with the ever growing population of deaf individuals
among us. You never know when you will meet
a deaf person, and need to communicate with them! Even if you just know the alphabet
and the basics of fingerspelling you will go far! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
One point in the
book I found interesting was that it can be used as a survival tool for anyone.
There may be a time in your life when you are unable to vocally communicate. During
this time, you can use ASL to communicate! As stated in the book, imagine you
are choking and can’t talk; you can use ASL to explain to a peer that you are
choking and need help. This can ultimately save your life in more ways than one!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Chapter 16<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
This chapter was
very informative! I’ve wondered in the past if there were ways to teach
yourself sign language in the comfort of your own home. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
After reading this
chapter, I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s not highly recommended to solely
rely on instructional videos and CD-ROMS when it comes to learning ASL.
However, I do believe that when mixed with the proper tools these instructional
aids can actually help improve learning!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Chapter 17<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Before
reading this chapter, I was completely unaware of the use of Pidgin Signed English.
Nonetheless, I have heard of “Signed English,” in which the signer follows the
sentence structure of English rather than ASL. However, I’m still slightly confused
on the difference between “Signed English,” and “Pidgin Signed English.” To me they generally seem the same, which
very few differences. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
One
thing I found interesting in this chapter, was learning that you have to use
PSE in an English word order to speak and sign at the same time. After reading this, I instantly thought about
one of my favorite TV shows “Switched at Birth.” In this show, a young girl
uses signed English to speak and sign at the same time. She does this to
communicate with hearing people, and when translating for friends. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
One
question that lingers in the head about this chapter is how deaf individuals separate
the two different languages? How do they tell the difference between the two?
For example, if they grew up learning ASL, how would they be able to understand
someone who is using Signed English which follows the English language
structure? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Chapter 18<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
In
reading this chapter, I’ve learned about the “continuum” of American Sign
Language. The continuum represents the entire population of sign language users.
It shows the purest (signing exact English) approach to the purest ASL
approach. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Ever
since I read the last chapter, I have wondered how people determine whether or
not “Signed English” is being used and how to determine when it’s being used. Ultimately
the book states that you have to catch the rhythm of the sentence. As a beginner ASL student, I don’t think I would
be able to tell the difference right away. I feel as if only time will tell! I just keep telling myself that practice makes
perfect, and to not give up <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Chapter 19<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
I have never
heard of Total Communication before. To
be honest, I’m still not quite sure what it entails. I learned from the chapter
that TC is commonly but inaccurately used to mean “Simultaneous Communication,”
(Aka Signing while talking). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
After reading on
in the Chapter, I learned that there are schools based solely off on Total
Communication practices. However, I’m still on the fence whether or not these practices
actually benefit the deaf student. I
read that in TC schools that are no deaf teachers or facilitators, and that
most of the students were hearing! Therefore, I don’t feel like these schools
would help deaf children. If anything it would make learning more difficult! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Chapter 20 <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
Growing up with
a deaf cousin in the family definitely sparked my interest for learning ASL.
However, when it became time for college I soon realized that many colleges around
this area don’t offer ASL as a foreign Language. You would think since ASL is
the one of the top most used languages, the majority of colleges and universities
would recognize it as a foreign language!
However, I agree with the author when he states that it generally has to
do something with faulty preconceptions that many people have about the language.
Many people seem to think that it’s not a language because it can’t be written.
However, that isn’t the case at all! ASL can be written in terms of glossing.
The author also makes a good point when he compares ASL to the language of
Navajo! All written language was created at one time or another. Therefore,
long ago the language of Navajo had no written language either. Does that mean
Navajo isn’t a recognized language? No. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
Nonetheless, I
do not take the opportunity to learn ASL for granted! It may have taken a few semesters
(more like years) to get into but the time waiting was well worth it! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Chapter 21 <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In many
ways I’m similar to Alis! I have always wondered how deaf people feel when a
hearing person approaches them using sign language. Do you feel at ease? Do they feel uncomfortable?
I have too also been fascinated by Sign Language! After reading the chapter, I’ve
learned that there is an appropriate time to join into an ASL conversation. It’s
considered rude to some deaf individuals to interrupt. However, if you’re a grocery store waiting in the
checkout line and you notice a deaf individual it’s perfectly fine to make
small talk! <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span> <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
One thing I found completely
shocking was that older children have been known to mock deaf people while
signing because they think it’s funny! That’s completely disrespectful and rude
nonetheless! I then read that some
adults do this as well! I can’t believe that an adult would mimic someone in
that way. If they roles were switched, I’m sure they wouldn’t appreciate the
gesture! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847529124514091102noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9161577168761109838.post-18580411972307283102012-09-28T15:47:00.000-07:002012-10-01T13:12:28.964-07:00Chapters 1-10 <br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">Before
taking this class, I can honestly admit that I didn't know much about American
Sign Language. However, I have an extended family member who is deaf. I remember going to family reunions as a
young child and trying to communicate with her. As I grew older, I could see
the frustration she felt when trying to communicate with everyone who didn't know
ASL. This is one of the main reasons why
I began on my journey to learn ASL. Before
taking this class, I had no idea ASL was to precise, and expressive. I've learned recently that it has its own set
of grammatical rules and syntax unlike any other language, even more so than English!
Before reading, I also wasn't aware of the elaborate history behind ASL. I
thought it was a fairly new language, maybe dating back to the late 19</span><sup style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">th</sup><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">
century. However, I was proved wrong
when I read that people were signing as early as the 18</span><sup style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">th</sup><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"> century. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Chapter
1<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"> In chapter 1, I read that in the
past children were being discouraged from using ASL in schools. It’s stated in
the chapter that some hearing teachers told their students that ASL was
considered “animal-like.” I found this appalling! ASL is the only way of communication
for the deaf community, just like English is the way of communication for
hearing people! What I also found every surprising was that it was said by a
teacher! As a teacher, it’s your goal to help every child succeed in the
classroom, not hinder them. Therefore, these teachers should have made in effort
in learning more about ASL, so that they could have more effectively communicated
with their deaf students. As a future teacher, I will use my knowledge of ASL
to communicate to my students so that they feel comfortable in the learning environment.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Chapter 2<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"> In reading Chapter 2, I learned sign
language is an international language and varies from country to country. Many
signs used in one country can mean something completely different in another
country. I had no idea that there were so many different types of sign language
including Scandinavian, Japanese, British, French, Spanish, and many more! My
first reaction to finding out about the many different forms was, “does a
language barrier exist between them?” The obvious answer would be yes! However,
I was amazed to find out that language gaps don’t really exist between the many
different forms. They improvise, use gestures, and expressions to establish
mutual comprehension. This is one of the many reasons why I find ASL so intriguing.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Chapter 3<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"> Chapter 3 discusses Braille and ASL
and if there is a similarity between the two. As a young child, I thought
Braille and ASL went hand-in-hand. Nonetheless, this isn't the case whatsoever!
Braille and ASL are completely two different things. I've learned from reading,
that many times deaf people are confused with blind people. After reading about
this, I actually encountered an individual referring to a deaf person as blind.
If I was a deaf person in society, I would constantly feel frustrated and
annoyed with the misused term. It’s important for us people in society to recognize,
and respect the differences between the two. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Overall,
I do feel like my opinion of Braille changed. Before reading I thought of Braille as some
sort of language. However, now that I’m more knowledgeable, I’m aware Braille
is just a tactile form of printed media rather than a language! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Chapter
4<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Chapter 4 discusses the importance
of Abbe de L’Eppe and Abbe Roch-Ambrosie Cucurron in the preservation of
American Sign Language. These two men took it upon themselves to teach the deaf
community in Paris in the 18<sup>th</sup> century. In my opinion, both were
very extraordinary individuals to do what they did! L’Eppe was the first
hearing person to go into the deaf community, to learn and to let the deaf people
teach him! He also recognized the importance of ASL in an instructional
setting. Nonetheless, if it wasn’t for L’Eppe, children in schools would still
be discouraged from using ASL in the school system today! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Chapter
5<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">This
chapter in particular taught me a lot! I figured that since American English
derived from Britain so would ASL. However, I was initially caught off guard
when reading that ASL and BSL (British Sign Language) don’t have many similarities
at all. One of the only links between the two is the “Martha Vineyard dialect.”
I read in the chapter, that at first glance BSL can ultimately be mistaken for
ASL. I feel like this statement kind of contradicted the fact that they are
different. How could they be mistaken for one another if there are no similarities
between the two? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">British
Sign Language sounds very interesting, and I definitely would be interested in
learning more about it! However, I feel like it’s important to me to first
fully understand American Sign Language first! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Chapter
6 & 7<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">I
can honestly say for the first week or so of class, the grammar and syntax of
ASL was very confusing. It still confuses me from time to time. However, I feel
this is a natural thing in learning a new language. Just like an English student
learning Spanish for the first time, everything is going to be slightly
confusing for the first couple of weeks. Now that I’m more knowledgeable about the
syntactical structure of ASL I find it easier to follow than the English
language! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">I
also read in this chapter about Manually Coded English, which depicts English
Vocabulary and grammatical structure. I
personally feel like this could benefit ASL students learning English. It’s
more of a step-by-step process rather than a fully immersion process which can be
beneficial for some students. The students
are still using sign language while learning about the syntactical structure of
English. However, I do think it could cause confusion
as well. Ultimately, you are trying to mix two completely different types of language.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Chapter
7 discusses the ASL as a written language. When I began reading this chapter I
thought to myself, “How can ASL be a written language, if it’s purely visual?”
After finishing the chapter I learned that ultimately ASL has no written
language, and that many researchers for some time have been searching for a way
to reproduce ASL in print. I personally can’t
think of a way to write ASL! Since it’s a visual language, I don’t think there
will ever be a completely accurate written form. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Chapter
8<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">Chapter
8 discusses how ASL is learned by the deaf community. To be honest, I've always wondered about
this; for instance, children who are born deaf and have hearing parents. I personally feel like it’s important to integrate
ASL into the school system. Deaf
children are not any less important than any other child, and should be given
the opportunity to formally learn ASL in the school if needed! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Chapter
9<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">This
chapter was probably one of the most interesting I've read so far in this book!
In the English language many jokes rely on homonyms, and puns which in turn are
not understood by many people in the deaf community. However, I was surprised to
learn the deaf community has to own way of communicating humor. ASL humor is visually
based, and involves the use of gestures, cinematic effects, and a lot of “sign-play.”
As of right now, I don’t recognize humor in ASL. However, just as a young child
learning English it takes time! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Chapter
10<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Since ASL is a visual language, I
though accents were impossible! After reading this chapter I learned that
hearing accents are based more off of language differences and ASL accents are
based more off of style differences. For example some sign small, and some
large. I also found it very interesting that accents occur within different
states! For example, birthday is signed a different way in Alabama than it is
in Maine. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Reading these first 10 ten chapters
has really opened my eyes to some interesting things within ASL. I look forward
to reading the book in its entirety. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847529124514091102noreply@blogger.com0