A blended approach to learning sign language is still the best!
I often am asked what the best way to go about learning sign language is. My stock answer is to take a blended approach (classes, web resources, books, practicing with others) in order to give yourself the best and most well rounded experience.
Classes of some sort, whether it is through your local community college, church, school class, or becoming enrolled in an actual interpreter training program can all be great ways to learn the language. The reason for this is that the interactive part of taking a class and being able to actually practice with other new learners is so important!
I know many people have learned from books and through sites like Signing Savvy. However, taking a physical class with a teacher gives you the chance to get some expressive practice with other live individuals that can give you feedback and add a dimension not available through a book and internet resources.
Signing Savvy is the perfect companion when you are taking a class. Our site currently offers more than five thousand signs (and we’re always adding more). If you compare that to your average sign language book, that is about three times more signs! Signing Savvy full membership is comparable to the cost of a sign language textbook, but offers some very unique features that you can’t get from a book. Many of our customers who have become members are pleasantly surprised by the ability to access other user’s lists and create their own word lists that then allow them to create flashcards and quizzes to their specific learning needs. The printing capabilities are also a wonderful added perk, which allow you to create your own hardcopy flashcards or even add printed signs to story books and art projects.
There are many ways to use Signing Savvy to learn sign language while taking a class or learning on your own. See our article on how to use Signing Savvy to learn sign language for more tips.
Signing Savvy aims to be your sign language resource to aid you while taking a class, learning on your own, or as a reference to help you grow your sign language vocabulary. Whether you start with a class or just a book or the Signing Savvy website, learning sign language can be a wonderful experience that opens you up to a whole new way to communicate and see the world more visually through signs and body language.