Abstract
In recent years there has been a growing interest in sign second language acquisition (SSLA). However, research in this area is sparse. As signed and spoken languages are expressed in different modalities, there is a great potential for broadening our understanding of the mechanisms and the acquisition processes of learning a (second) language through SSLA research. In addition, the application of existing SLA knowledge to sign languages can bring new insights into the generalizability of SLA theories and descriptions, to see whether they hold true for sign languages. In this paper I give a brief overview of sign language and SSLA research, together with insights from the research on iconicity and gestures and its role for SSLA, including examples from my own studies on L2 signers. The paper concludes with a discussion of both the potential and challenges of combining sign language and SLA research, providing some notes towards directions for future research.
Highlights
The possibility of learning a sign language (SL) has, in some countries, expanded in recent decades
Parallel with the advancements related to accessibility for services directed to the deaf and hard-of-hearing population, the new and increased knowledge of Svenskt teckenspråk (STS) provided an impetus which led to a number of STS as L2 programs (e.g., SL and interpreting programs, parental SL programs) and other courses throughout Sweden (Nilsson & Schönström, 2014)
The aim of this paper is to present a contemporary introduction to existing research on sign second language acquisition (SSLA)
Summary
The possibility of learning a sign language (SL) has, in some countries, expanded in recent decades. Sweden, there are many opportunities for a hearing individual, often with no previous experience with deaf people or an SL, to learn Swedish Sign Language, Svenskt teckenspråk (STS) as a foreign/second language (L2) for various purposes, many times with the aim to become an SL interpreter. The output of skilled L2 signers is crucial in order to overcome the communication barriers between hearing and deaf people This includes SL interpreters, teachers of the deaf and hearing parents who need to learn an SL in order to be able to communicate with their deaf children. The aim of this paper is to present a contemporary introduction to existing research on SSLA This will be framed in the context of some areas of SLA, crosslinguistic influence or transfer and in research on gestures and iconicity. The paper will end with a discussion of some possible benefits and challenges of combining SL and SLA research, as well as some notes on directions for future research
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Journal of the European Second Language Association
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
