The American Sign Language Browser website provides video clips of thousands of ASL signs listed in alphabetical order. This site is recommended for ASL instruction, non-verbal communication skills, introduction to deaf culture.
Type of Material:
Tutorial
Technical Requirements:
This web site is designed for a browser that supports frames and the ability to embed QuickTime movies. If your browser does not support these, this site will not work properly.
Identify Major Learning Goals:
The user may view and practice the ASL signs for many of the most commonly used words in the English language.
Target Student Population:
Anyone interested in learning and/or teaching American Sign Language.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
No prerequisites are needed to actively engage in this site, but a basic understanding of ASL will enrich and enhance what is presented in the video clips.
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
The video clips of thousands of words allow the viewer to actually see the words as they should be correctly signed. A written definition of each word is also provided on the screen next to the video clip. This site is a good example of using current technology to benefit learners. This site contains a sample of the material found on the "Personal Communicator" CD-ROM. The website does not contain the rich graphics, sound, video, interactivity, and instant connection (download time) found on the CD-ROM.
Concerns:
None
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
This huge collection of video clips allows for independent study, review work, and refresher courses in American Sign Language. The online accessibility coupled with both video and text explanations make it a useful learning tool for anyone interested in ASL. Teachers of ASL could easily adapt or design research or presentation assignments to include this site as a resource. This would also make a good addition to any Introduction to Special Education course. Additionally, much investigation is currently underway regarding the incorporation of a kinesthetic element into teaching struggling readers. ASL could be a link for some of those students. The aforementioned "Personal Communicator" CD-ROM and a book entitled "American Sign Language the Easy Way" are available for purchase. Information is provided at this site.
Concerns:
The QuickTime video images are not large so reinforcement of ASL in an actual face-to-face setting will reinforce what is learned from this useful site.
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
The site is clear and specific. Instructions are simple and posted on the opening page. Access to the alphabet, specific words under a certain letter, the written definition of the word, and the video clip for the selected word can all be seen at the same time.
Concerns:
Younger children may need help in navigating the site. This site is not Bobby Approved.
Creative Commons:
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