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Sign Language
editSign languages are natural languages that use manual communication and body language to convey meaning, such as hands as opposed to spoken languages. They are primarily used by deaf communities worldwide. Sign languages have their own grammar and syntax, making them distinct linguistic systems.
History
editOrigins and Development
editSign languages have evolved independently in different deaf communities around the world. The development of sign languages is closely tied to the establishment of deaf communities and educational institutions for the deaf.
American Sign Language (ASL) traces its roots to the early 19th century in the United States, influenced significantly by French Sign Language (LSF) brought by Laurent Clerc and Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet. The establishment of the American School for the Deaf in 1817 in Hartford, Connecticut, marked a pivotal moment in ASL's history, shaping its vocabulary and syntax.[1]
In Europe, sign languages such as British Sign Language (BSL) and French Sign Language (LSF) developed alongside spoken languages, with notable educators like Charles-Michel de l’Épée and Samuel Heinicke contributing to their formalization and educational methodologies.[1] Note that British Sign Language is different from American Sign Language.
Japanese Sign Language (JSL) has a distinct history rooted in its cultural and linguistic context, evolving separately from ASL and other sign languages due to Japan's unique socio-cultural environment.[2]
Linguistic Recognition
editThe recognition of sign languages as bona fide languages with grammatical structures comparable to spoken languages came gradually. William Stokoe's work in the 1960s, applying linguistic principles to ASL, was largely influential in setting up its academic credibility.[3]
Cultural and Social Impact
editDeaf Communities and Identity
editDeaf communities have historically formed around shared sign languages, creating vibrant cultural identities. These communities often advocate for the recognition and rights of deaf individuals, including access to education and cultural participation[1]. One example of a result of this advocation is having not just some classes being taught in sign language, but also entire schools teaching a majority of their subjects in sign language.
Martha's Vineyard, an island off the coast of Massachusetts, was historically notable for its high incidence of hereditary deafness, leading to a unique, integrated community where sign language was used by many of the deaf and hearing residents.[1]
Educational Methods and Debates
editThe history of deaf education has been marked by debates between oralism (emphasizing lipreading and spoken language) and manualism (using sign language). These debates reflect broader societal attitudes towards deafness and language acquisition.[1]
Scientific Research and Brain Connectivity
editRecent studies, such as those examining the effects of early language deprivation on brain connectivity in deaf individuals, highlight the neurological basis of language processing and the importance of early language exposure.[4]
Global Perspectives
edit
Sign languages aren't just limited to Western cultures but are found worldwide. Each one with its own linguistic and cultural influences. Comparative studies, such as those between German Sign Language (DGS) and Swiss German Sign Language (DSGS), provide insights into language evolution and cultural diversity within deaf communities.[5]
One example on differences can also be seen between American sign language (ASL) and British sign language (BSL). While a lot of the basic structure of the languages are similar (i.e. sentence structure), there's also a large amount of differences on vocabulary. Even in the alphabet. The American Sign Language Alphabet uses 1 hand for their letters while British Sign Language uses 2 hands for their alphabet. As seen on the right, the letter "A" in ASL is done by holding up your dominant hand in a fist, facing outward, with the thumb sticking up to the side of the fist. While "A" in BSL is done by touching the thumb of your base hand with the index finger of your dominant hand
Contemporary Issues
editTechnological Advances and Challenges
editAdvances in technology, including cochlear implants and auditory enhancement devices, have sparked debates within deaf communities about their impact on sign language usage and cultural identity.[1]
Advocacy and Rights
editInternational organizations like the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) advocate for the rights of deaf individuals globally, promoting access to education, employment, and cultural resources in sign language.[1]
Conclusion
editSign languages are a vital aspect of deaf culture and identity, embodying rich linguistic diversity and community solidarity worldwide. The ongoing research and advocacy surrounding sign languages underscore their importance in fostering inclusive societies and preserving cultural heritage.
References
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- ^ Murray, Joseph J. "Sign Language." Encyclopædia Britannica, 21 May 2023, academic-eb-com.eznvcc.vccs.edu/levels/collegiate/article/deaf-history/609798. Accessed 27 Jun. 2024.
- ^ Dale-Hench, Martin. "Japanese Sign Language." ERIC, https://web-p-ebscohost-com.eznvcc.vccs.edu/ehost/detail/detail?vid=5&sid=b7e0c498-6ee5-4779-837d-e8d3fb01886c%40redis&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZSZzY29wZT1zaXRl#AN=EJ1427630&db=eric.
- ^ Tabak, John. Significant Gestures: A History of American Sign Language. Praeger Publishers, 2006.
- ^ Cheng, Qi, et al. "Effects of Early Language Deprivation on Brain Connectivity: Language Pathways in Deaf Native and Late First-Language Learners of American Sign Language." Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 2019, doi:10.3389/fnhum.2019.00320.
- ^ Ebling, Sarah, et al. "Factors to Consider when Making Lexical Comparisons of Sign Languages: Notes from an Ongoing Comparison of German Sign Language and Swiss German Sign Language." Sign Language Studies, vol. 16, no. 1, 2015, pp. 30-56.