Barriers to family ASL classes
The way I see it, there are three main obstacles for families trying to learn ASL to communicate with a deaf child in their family:
1) Distance -- Many schools for the deaf take in students from a large geographic area. This means families may have to travel an unreasonable distance to attend ASL classes at the school.
2) Time -- Often, the deaf child isn't the only child. There may be sports, lessons, or commitments with the other children's school(s) that get in the way. Also, ASL classes may be offered in the evening, which can be a crazy time for any family.
3) Cost -- The cost can vary from program to program. If it is a "per person" rate, it can be a real problem for people wishing to have a large number of family members learn ASL.
I wonder what realistically possible solutions to these problems people can think of...
Some have mentioned that there should be no cost for families to learn ASL if there's a deaf child in the family. I agree in theory, but realistically, it takes money to make it happen -- personnel, physical space, materials, etc. What are some ways to get around that? (Volunteers, other sources of funding ... ?)
I suggest teaching via videophones. I think the videophones are still free for families that has at least one deaf member. That would help a lot for families who live too far away.
This is just only one way to help out.
I have no idea how to research funding for asl classes free to families (still charge cheaply to interested community)
Re: Barriers to family ASL classes
Have you checked out what Gallaudet has developed in this area. A deaf person goes into the home to help teach and sign and how to communicat/work with the child particularly in reading.
I know this is not feasible in most areas but it is a neat idea!
Re: Barriers to family ASL classes
Actually, I know there are other places that have similar early intervention programs involving deaf adult "mentors" for hearing families. My very first ASL teacher worked as such a mentor. I believe it would be possible in just about any urban (or even suburban) area.
As for rural areas, those are always the toughies when it comes to deaf education, but the idea of videophones could work. Not quite as good as in-person interaction, in my opinion, but pretty close.
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