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The benefits of learning American Sign Language (ASL) go far beyond the ability to communicate without spoken words. It provides meaningful enhancements to communication skills, cognitive development, personal growth, and social connections. 

Whether you want to bridge the gap between hearing and Deaf communities, boost your brain’s abilities in areas like memory and multitasking, or open up new career and cultural opportunities, ASL is a powerful language to learn. 

Advantages That Range from Cognitive to Social

Similar to other languages, the benefits of learning sign language can be seen both within yourself and within your community at large. As more people have recognized the importance of inclusivity, cultural understanding, and cognitive development, ASL has emerged as a valuable skill with benefits that touch nearly every aspect of daily life. 

Communication Enhancement
 

• Enhanced communication skills – When you learn ASL, you open new opportunities for communicating with Deaf individuals, as well as other sign language users, which broadens your ability to connect with others. This is arguably one of the best and most important benefits of learning ASL, since it helps to foster a more interconnected community.
• Creating an understanding without words – There are many instances where speaking is not possible or appropriate, like in noisy environments, underwater, during performances, or in quiet spaces. One benefit of learning sign language is that you can still effectively communicate within these spaces.
   

Intellectual Benefits
 

• Cognitive stimulation – Learning any new language stimulates the brain and helps improve concentration, memory, multitasking, analytic thinking, and executive control. Along with this, one study showed that . 
• Spatial awareness – ASL relies on the use of space to communicate effectively. It is important for all signers to be aware of spatial relationships, directionality, and the representation of objects and locations while speaking, so engaging in ASL will enhance these abilities.
• Multiple channel processing – ASL requires involved parties to process information visually, kinesthetically, and emotionally (through facial cues), which helps the brain’s ability to handle multiple inputs at once. 
   

Personal Growth
 

• Career opportunities –&²Ô²ú²õ±è;Proficiency in another language, including ASL, can open doors in new fields like education, healthcare, social services, interpretation, government, and more. Many organizations value employees who can bridge the gaps in communication with Deaf clients or colleagues.
• Fulfillment – Like with other languages, learning ASL creates a new way to see the world and can be deeply rewarding. One of the benefits of learning ASL is that many learners find satisfaction in the challenges of learning a visual language.
   

Social Benefits
 

• Inclusion and cultural awareness – ASL provides insight into Deaf culture, which encourages empathy, respect, and cultural competence. It also bridges the gap between hearing and Deaf communities, promoting inclusivity. 
• Support for family and friends – If you have Deaf friends, one benefit of learning sign language is that it enables meaningful and direct communication, which can strengthen your relationships and provide support.
• Community engagement – If you know ASL, you can participate in and contribute to community events, volunteer opportunities, and advocacy efforts for accessibility and inclusion.
   

Where to Learn ASL

There are plenty of platforms that you can use to learn basic ASL. The first and easiest way to get an introduction, learn the basics, or brush up on skills is through YouTube. Through this, you will be able to understand the alphabet, numbers, and some basic vocabulary. Another route is to try online options or private tutors. This is another great possibility for anyone looking for personalized learning with a flexible curriculum.

Lastly, colleges offer ASL courses and certificates that have different levels of instruction and cultural studies related to the Deaf community. In these classes, you will be surrounded by like-minded students who will be dedicated to learning ASL and better connecting with communities. 

Study at С»ÆƬÊÓƵ!

At С»ÆƬÊÓƵ, we have our own program that sets graduates up for success, and our courses are designed to prepare students to work with children and adults who are Deaf or have hearing loss. We help students practice and immerse themselves in the language to better understand ASL and communicate with others. If you are interested in taking this route, be sure to check out our B.A. in American Sign Language program or our Minor in American Sign Language.

If you have already mastered ASL (and understand the benefits of learning sign language) you might be ready to take on another language. С»ÆƬÊÓƵ’s Department of Modern and Classical Language Studies has six different programs that are available to suit your needs!

Apply Today

If you are ready to reap the advantages of learning ASL or further develop your language skills, let С»ÆƬÊÓƵ lead the way. Apply to one of our programs today!