What's the easiest, and fastest way for me to learn sign language?

Question

I have several co-workers who are deaf, and I want to be able to learn sign language so that I can make it easier for them to understand what I say better. How can I go about doing that in the fastest/ easiest way? The correct way too. Oh! And is it hard to learn?

To the first two answerers: both of you are stupid AND ignorant! This is a serious question, and having people like you answering it just makes me want to slap the h*** out of you both!! Grow up!

Answer 1

I once bought a cheap Sign Language CD at Walmart for like $9.99. So check there as video is better to learn from than in a book. Pretty much the fastest way to learn is practicing the signs you've learnt with your deaf co-workers. That is how I learnt the fastest. I took ASL 1 and at the same time there was another deaf tennis player on my team (I'm deaf also but I grew up oral w/o sign.) who signed only and had deaf coworkers at Pizza Hut. So between going to class, tennis practice and work daily, I had plenty of opportunity to always sign. Within six months, I became fluent.

It was not hard for me to learn at all. I didn't even have to study for it for class but that is only because I learnt the signs real fast, and I'm very visual. I think some who are not visual might have a longer time of learning it. It varies from person to person.

By the way, it is very common to get a lot of rude, ignorant responses here on Y!A. It is quite rampant, so just ignore it and not let it get to you. Focus on the diamonds in the rough.

Answer 2

Look for classes in the area. Check with the hospital or even with local schools. There is nothing that can compare with having a hands on teacher.

It isn't difficult. Just takes a little time. I learned in JR High and I still remember a lot of it some 20 years later. I have even needed it on occasion.

Answer 3

well, i taught myself sign language from a book and theni taught it at a club at school. However, i live in the states, so American Sign Language (ASL) is going to be different from other sign languages. I reccomend a book, and just practice a lot- like while you shower or arent busy, just run through things you might want to say and translate them if you know how to sign it, or else learn it - that way you'll definitley know what you need to know. (but keep in mind that most sign languages have their own grammar rules, so if you do do the translation thing, make sure you're gramatically correct!

Answer 4

First make certain you are learning ASL (American Sign Language) assuming you are in the US. There is no universal language. While there was books, to get anywhere you will need to take a course. They are usually taught be deaf instructors

Answer 5

learning sign language is very easy.Well ofcourse more easier then even learning english.Best way to learn sign languages is get some tutions from a teacher of any deaf and dumb school.Dont think m joking.Best way to learn sign language is to get help from a professional.I bet you u'll learn basics of sign language in a week,and complete language in a month.BEST OF LUCK.

Answer 6

the quickest way for me was to hang out w/my deaf friend and have him show me how to do it and what each sign meant if you are a fast learner then it wont take 2 long

Answer 7

Phone a deaf person!
He'll help you.

Answer 8

As with anything. Research, study and practice.

Look into this:

http://www.handspeak.com/index.php

Answer 9

Watch "Gangster Rap" on MTV

Answer 10

watch Einstein videos