Communication is a basic human need. However, not everyone communicates the same way. There are people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech impediments. This is where the importance of hand sign language comes into play.
What is Hand Sign Language?
Hand sign language is a visual language that uses hand gestures, facial expressions, and body language to convey meaning. It is used by people who are deaf or hard of hearing to communicate with others. Each sign represents a word or phrase, and there are different sign languages used in different countries.
The History of Sign Language
Sign language has been used for centuries by people who are deaf or hard of hearing. However, it was not until the 18th century that sign language was recognized as a legitimate form of communication. In 1755, Abbe Charles-Michel de l'Epee founded the first public school for the deaf in Paris, France where he developed a formal sign language system.
Types of Sign Language
There are different sign languages used in different countries. Some of the most common sign languages include American Sign Language (ASL), British Sign Language (BSL), Australian Sign Language (Auslan), and Japanese Sign Language (JSL).
Benefits of Learning Sign Language
Learning sign language has many benefits. It allows you to communicate with people who are deaf or hard of hearing, it can enhance your cognitive abilities, and it can even improve your memory. Additionally, it can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience.
How to Learn Sign Language
There are many ways to learn sign language. You can take a class at a community college or university, hire a private tutor, or learn online. There are also many resources available such as books, videos, and mobile apps that can help you learn sign language.
The Universal Hand Sign Language
The Universal Hand Sign Language is a system that was developed to provide a common language that can be used by people from different countries. It is based on a combination of American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL).
Advantages of Universal Hand Sign Language
The Universal Hand Sign Language has many advantages. It allows people from different countries to communicate with each other, regardless of their native language. It also promotes inclusivity and breaks down communication barriers.
Basic Signs in Universal Hand Sign Language
Here are some basic signs in Universal Hand Sign Language:
- Hello - Wave with your hand
- Yes - Make a fist and move it up and down
- No - Shake your head
- Thank you - Touch your chin with the tips of your fingers and move your hand forward
- Sorry - Touch your chest with an open hand and move it in a circular motion
- Goodbye - Wave with your hand
Conclusion
Hand sign language is an important tool for communication. It allows people who are deaf or hard of hearing to communicate with others, and it promotes inclusivity and breaks down communication barriers. Learning sign language can be a rewarding experience, and the Universal Hand Sign Language provides a common language that can be used by people from different countries.