Q: What language do you think in?
A: I think in English! But there are those that do think visually, in ASL!
Q: How do I get started in learning ASL?
A: If you’re in school, I’d check and see if your school offers a language class and get started in the basics with that! From there, you can continue learning with ASL 2, ASL 3, and so on. This will depend heavily on your city, state and country.
Most schools will have at least ASL 1 or 2, if you’re in high school. Community Colleges and Universities will have more advanced classes along with specific course tracks for interpreters, if you’re interested.
Q: How do I get started as an interpreter?
A: Again, I’d check and see if your school offers it. For example, Gallaudet and CSUN has a course track for learning to be certified as an interpreter!
That being said, it’s quite likely that Google will know the answer.
Q: Is there a certification system for interpreters?
A: Yes! RID — Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf has such certifications! There may also be state-based or country-based certifications if you’re not in the United States. I’m unfortunately not familiar with the process for other countries so you’d need to check into that if you’re interested in learning more.
Q: Are there good websites or videos that you’d recommend for learning ASL?
A: I’d recommend starting with Bill Vicars’ website, Lifeprint.com or Handspeak.com as your starting points. There is also QueerASL in Seattle for those in the LGBTQIA+ space! But, they shouldn’t be your only resources for learning ASL. It’s important to learn from native signers to get the contextual understanding of the way ASL works.
The Oklahoma School for the Deaf is also offering free online ASL courses this Spring and it’s open to everyone! Oklahoma School for the Deaf Twitter post about this. I’m not sure if it’s a yearly thing, but definitely worth checking out!
Q: What about learning ASL at home or in a way that doesn’t cause issues with my autism or anxiety?
A: Ahh… this one’s a bit of a tough one. My suggestion would be to consider whether it’s worth joining a Discord server that deals with that.
I may start a Discord server for this purpose and share it here but I don’t currently know of any at this time
Q: I’ve got more questions!!!!
A: I’ve got answers. Sort of. Please ask your questions and I’d be happy to update this page or write something about that subject. If I don’t know the answer, I will say as much and research the subject accordingly.