2008 Entries and Abstracts
Franky Ramont
Linguistics
ASLOnline (American Sign Language Online)
ASLOnline was developed over a period of about two years with the assistance of Liberal Arts Instructional Technology Services (LAITS). This innovative and interactive multimedia-learning tool contains web-based materials that correspond to the curriculum and text used for the first semester of American Sign Language classes (ASL 506). The goal of the project was to develop a unique resource for students to utilize while studying and working on homework and group projects outside of class. Through the creative use of web design and digital video technology, we developed this resource for students to use online. Fluent signers of ASL, both Deaf and hearing, serve as models in videos that demonstrate vocabulary, sentences, and conversations. Video content is organized into 12 units, reflecting the structure of the textbook, Signing Naturally (Dawn Sign Press). Within each unit, video clips of signs and sentences are further organized into categories, such as numbers, verbs, pronouns, or yes-no questions. Students are encouraged to use this tool to gain practice in their receptive and expressive ASL skills, as well as study for quizzes and tests. In addition, teachers are able to assign homework and projects related to materials and content on the website. By encouraging students to use ASLOnline to learn and practice basic vocabulary and sentence skill building, less class time is spent on rote teaching of vocabulary, and more time is focused on conversational practice and in-depth linguistic concepts related to the structure and grammar of ASL. Students who use this tool efficiently show marked improvement in their receptive and productive skills as they relate to the vocabulary and sentence structures modeled in the ASLOnline project. In addition, this online tool contains important linguistic and cultural notes related to specific units or videos, as well as links to outside resources pertaining to cultural events in the local Deaf community. By encouraging students not only to use ASLOnline as a resource for class, but also as a cultural resource, they are better equipped to foster connections with and observe Deaf individuals outside of the classroom. This cultural experience ultimately enriches their language learning and competence to work and volunteer in the Deaf community.