The Use of Streaming Media and Animation to Teach Fingerspelling and Vocabulary in American Sign Language
Paula M. Willig · 2000
The key to expressive and receptive use of American Sign Language and fingerspelling is exposure. Sign language classes provide exposure, as do extracurricular activities and required interaction time. Given the time constraints of teaching both a language and interpretation of that language within a two-year time span, I looked for ways to increase exposure time during those years. The World Wide Web has become a resource that provides increased exposure to fingerspelling and sign language vocabulary. I have worked with Thomas Bell, Director of Media Services and Telecommunications, and others at John A. Logan College, to develop a fingerspelling Web site using streaming media. I have also incorporated a vocabulary section into my classes where students can ask questions over the Internet about specific vocabulary. Either I respond to those questions in writing, or with an animated GIF file (Graphics Interchange Format) that demonstrates the particular vocabulary word or phrase.