This has been the most challenging week so far in my ASL journey. The volume of new vocabulary combined with more complex conversational structures, felt quite overwhelming at times. I found myself prioritizing other schoolwork and avoiding consistent practice that ASL requires. This felt quite disappointing however I also know that this is often part of learning something new and challenging. This process is reminding me that learning a language requires discipline, regular engagement and repetition. Although this week feels like a setback, it is also motivation to refocus and dedicate more intentional time to practice for the remaining weeks.<\/p>\n
This week we learned how to express different emotions and describe how we are feeling (a hint as to how I am feeling can be seen under \u201cfavourite sign of the week\u201d). We also practiced structuring conversations about the languages we have used throughout our lives. For example,<\/p>\n
-Which Language(s) we grew up using<\/p>\n
-which language(s) we learned when we were young, for how many years and if we remember it<\/p>\n
-Which language(s) we learned as an adult, for how many years and if we remember it<\/p>\n
-which language(s) we are learning now and the level of difficulty<\/p>\n
I feel fairly confident signing this conversation in sequence when I have time to think. However, I find it quite difficult in conversation with another person since I sometimes struggle to understand what others are signing quickly, and this leaves me unsure how to respond. This has shown me that memorizing vocabulary is very different than engaging in conversation, a skill that I know will develop as I continue to practice with others in class.<\/p>\n
Deaf Culture and Community <\/strong><\/p>\n This week we read about examples of hearing privilege and how significantly it impacts Deaf individuals. For example, hearing people can apply to any university without worrying about discrimination or having qualified interpreters available. They can communicate fully with parents and family in their first language. They can feel comfortable at restaurants, on buses, ferries, trains, and airplanes knowing that if anything happens, they will hear a warning announced. Reading these examples really made me aware of how many aspects of daily life I take for granted. It challenged me to consider the inequalities within our society and the importance of creating more accessible and inclusive spaces.<\/p>\n Kellie Martin is a Deaf artist who discussed HERE<\/a> what its like having Hearing People Anxiety (HPA). <\/p>\n Favourite Sign of the Week<\/strong><\/p>\n