At the University of Findlay, students have the opportunity to gain cross-cultural communication skills in many ways. Learning American Sign Language (ASL) can boost your resume and make you more marketable for jobs in any industry. In the University's ASL courses, you will learn about the Deaf culture and how to effectively communicate with the Deaf community.
Although ASL is not offered as a major or minor, the University offers a number of courses for students to master the language including:
American Sign Language IAmerican Sign Language IIDeaf Culture in the United StatesService Learning Experiences in American Sign Language
“I feel very fulfilled and accomplished when I am able to assist a client in the field who is deaf and utilize ASL as their primary means of communication."
- Starr (Sears) Laytart ’13
Click here to read more about Starr's college experience!
We truly believe our students learn best by doing! Our students often practice their ASL skills by teaching young children sign language at the Mazza Museum or through "Talking Hands," an after-school program for area children in pre-K - fifth grade. Watch the video below to learn more about the University of Findlay's "Talking Hands" program!
Sign Language Club
Students also gain course credits and practice ASL while having fun in the University's Sign Language Club. The Sign Language Club allows its members, American Sign Language (ASL) students and future signers to actively promote interest and appreciation of the deaf culture. Sign Club members assist in:
- Spring Break Bingo
- ASL socials
- Community involvement
- A variety of other activities to give members a better understanding of the language and culture of deaf individuals
Student Story
Despite the fact that he can hear, American Sign Language is Elijah “EJ” Emmons’ first language, and English his second. The reason: his parents are Deaf, and so are several of his relatives. Emmons has taken all of the ASL courses offered at the University and even though he was already fluent in the language, he has learned a lot and his classmates have learned from him.
“I went to school thinking that everyone’s parents were deaf, and adults were generally deaf and kids were hearing. When I started to make the connection, I thought it was weird and then I realized that I’m the weird one..."
- EJ Emmons, Strength and Conditioning major & ASL student
Read the full story here.
For more information about ASL at the University of Findlay, contact Cathy Donovan at [email protected].