Communication Connections: Service Learning and American Sign Language

Abstract

This article describes a connection between service learning and American Sign Language (ASL) instruction. The Deaf community served as communication partners for university students, enabling them to use language skills in a natural setting. The rationale and implementation of pairing ASL with service learning are presented. A review of one study provides information about student perceptions of service learning, and a second study presents evidence about the development of ASL skills through a service learning experience. Service learning proved to be a valuable teaching method for ASL instruction, facilitating an increase in cultural awareness and ASL skills. Students' anecdotal evidence about service learning experiences indicated that they gained insights beyond just the improvement in language skills. The connection between service learning and ASL instruction is advantageous because students gained cultural understanding as well as language skills. This course design could be used at other institutions where a Deaf community is accessible.