British Sign Language for Beginners - CPD Certified | Live Zoom Class

We look back through history and consider how attitudes and policies impact deaf people then and now. As we delve into the history of deafness, it becomes evident that societal attitudes and policies have played a significant role in shaping the experiences of deaf individuals.

You'll gain an insight into unique communities that identify not as a group with a disability but as cultural minorities with their own language. By understanding these communities and their experiences, we can challenge the notion that deafness is solely a disability and instead recognize it as a diverse and valuable aspect of human diversity.

Learn about the Statistics around hearing loss that will also help you realise how important it is to learn BSL. Understanding these statistics can provide a broader perspective on the prevalence and impact of this condition. Communication tactics: Understanding the best communication tactics with deaf people is crucial in fostering effective and inclusive interactions. By utilizing methods such as sign language interpretation, visual aids, and assistive technologies, we can bridge the communication gap and create a more inclusive society for individuals with hearing loss.

You will learn about some commonly available communication aids and support from qualified communication-support professionals, including technology such as real-time speech-to-text.

Learn about the technology and equipment we can use while communicating with deaf people. This includes devices like hearing aids, cochlear implants, and video relay services, which enable individuals with hearing loss to communicate effectively.

We look at why equal access is important, the effectiveness of lipreading, guidance on good communication, and adjustments related to deafness.

Learn essential BSL greetings to initiate conversations and create a welcoming atmosphere. These greetings include basic phrases such as "hello," "good morning," "how are you?" and more which are essential for establishing rapport and building relationships with deaf individuals.

Master the BSL alphabet and develop the ability to fingerspell words accurately, facilitating clear communication of names and unfamiliar vocabulary. This skill will enhance your overall fluency in BSL and make conversations more inclusive and accessible for everyone involved.

Acquire the skills to introduce yourself and engage in basic conversations, enabling you to establish connections and build rapport with the deaf community. These skills will not only help you in social settings but also in professional environments where you may need to interact with deaf individuals.

Develop proficiency in asking questions using sign language, allowing for effective communication and understanding in various contexts. It enables you to gather information, clarify doubts, and engage in meaningful conversations, fostering stronger connections and relationships with deaf individuals.

Explore the world of numbers in BSL, equipping you with the knowledge to express numerical concepts accurately. This skill is particularly useful in educational settings, as it allows you to teach and learn mathematical concepts using sign language. Additionally, understanding numbers in BSL can also be beneficial in professional settings, such as when discussing age, quantities, financial matters, or analysing data.

Enhance your conversational skills by learning vocabulary and phrases related to simple, everyday topics, empowering you to engage in meaningful exchanges. By improving your conversational skills in BSL, you can confidently communicate with deaf individuals and create inclusive environments. This can be especially valuable in social settings or when working in customer service roles where effective communication is essential.

The course content can be tailored to your interests, allowing for exploration of areas such as colours, animals, and travel within the context of BSL. Learning BSL can also provide a deeper understanding of deaf culture and foster empathy toward the challenges faced by the deaf community. Moreover, being able to communicate in BSL can open up new opportunities for personal and professional growth, such as volunteering or working in organisations that support the deaf community.