ASL Connect and the Future of Language Learning Online with Families

Constraints in Early Intervention services for deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) adults with families and DHH children are magnified by limitations in training, programming sustainability, funding, ability to connect to rural areas, and retention of qualified personnel.

A pilot study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of short lessons designed for families of deaf and hard of hearing infants and toddlers. Through the experience of eight weekly video conferencing sessions with deaf language mentors, the initial findings will show an immediate shift in caregivers’ attitudes as they discover and develop sign language skills to reach proficiency.

Participants will identify connections between research on language acquisition and early visual communication strategies presented in American Sign Language (ASL) Connect videos. Participants will also be able to articulate the larger ASL Connect project’s resources, ASL Connect: Families in particular. Participants will evaluate the website components and prepare feedback for the ASL Connect team.