The importance of sign language

August 14, 2017

• Topical

This week, University College London (UCL) announced their plans to recognise British Sign Language (BSL) as a sufficient qualification in its entry requirements. The university requires all applicants to have a modern foreign language to at least GCSE level, or study one alongside their degree, and the ability to sign has been added to this language list. This was approved in the hope to boost recognition and access to BSL, which was acknowledged as a language in its own right by the government in 2003.

Sign language is a medium of communication sharing thoughts and ideas through facial expressions, hand shapes and finger spellings. In the United States of America, sign language is the third most commonly taught language at university however, such popularity in the UK is somewhat lacking. Nonetheless, the new modifications made by the leading London university could well spark change.

While there are a huge number of people learning new languages across the country, BSL rarely appears in this linguistic learning trend. We’ve come up with the various benefits of getting on board with sign language, highlighting its importance and significance in today’s society.

1.It’s easy!

While BSL may appear to be a confusing outburst of hand gestures and symbols, learning it is not as hard as one may imagine. While there are some differences in grammar to the English language, it is nowhere near as complicated as getting to grips with the drastic grammar patterns of foreign languages and there are plenty of online resources to get you started.

2. Creates a more inclusive community

The deaf community often feels isolated due to their inability to communicate with people who are unable to sign, cutting them off from main society due to the barriers of communication. Learning BSL helps to bridge this gap between those who can hear and those who cannot, providing the opportunity to meet new people you may not have otherwise come into contact with.

3. Bilingualism boosts the brain

There is an endless list of advantages of learning a second language. It enriches and enhances a vast array of cognitive processes and also helps to promote cultural awareness. Whether signed or spoken, gaining another language is a great skill that is equally excellent for brain health and exercise.

4. Job prospects and opportunities

Being able to translate spoken word into sign language is a very rare and in demand skill. With over 11 million deaf or hard of hearing people living in the UK, there is an incredible need for interpreters. It is a skill of high value and despite a belief that there may be little use of it in the job market, a good proficiency in sign language can open up a whole range of opportunities.

Are you able to sign and interested in becoming a tutor using your degree and sign language together?