ASL Program Objectives

Linguistic Goals

To be accomplished by the end of the course sequence (ASL 101 through 107): 

1. Mastering core vocabulary and grammar, including the nonmanual and spatial aspects of grammar. 
2. Consistently integrating the multidimensional aspects of ASL (spatialization, depicting signs, constructed action/dialogue, and other kinds of depiction) in their everyday signing. 

To be pursued in the third and fourth years (through 200-level and above courses): 

1. Learning specialized vocabulary in different disciplines. 
2. Comprehending a wide variety of styles, registers, and dialects in ASL communities. 
3. Articulating complex ideas and concepts in ASL using a wide range of word choices, sentence structures, depictions, and nonmanual signals. 

Cultural Goals

1. Comprehending the nuances of various conversational norms, visual cues, and tactile cues in ASL communities. 
2. Having a broad knowledge of American Deaf history, ASL literature, Deaf education, and sign language linguistics. 
3. Understanding the nuances of current Deaf cultural and disability issues, both in the United States and around the world. 
4. Exploring the intersectional facets of Deaf culture, including but not limited to those of race, class, gender, sexuality, and disability. 
5. Becoming an effective ally of Deaf and disabled people, both personally and professionally.