thomsen.

First, what does ASL stand for? Ah ha! I bet you already know. Or I bet you don’t. Either way, I win. According to The Urban Dictionary, there is seven definitions, but we’re gonna go with the top three. Let’s go to the first one: it states that ASL is what stupid people say on chats to learn who you are and where you live so they can come to your house with a chainsaw and kill you. And you believed that one, did you not? How about the second one, which states that, asl is age sex location. which is followed by a block from your buddylist. Wow, I do not know if this is hilarious or just borderline scary. Alright, let’s move on to the last one: 1. Above Sea Level 2. Age Sex Location 3. American Sign Language. So, which is it?

American Sign Language. Actually, if you put “asl” in the Google search box, the top four links are geared to American Sign Language. Well, what does this have to do with teaching American Sign Language? Please be patient. You are getting way too ahead of yourself. Well, first, I just wanted to clarify that what you are reading here is on the subject of American Sign Language and not on the subject of the Association of Symbolic Logic. You know, that would be a interesting read as well.

Secondly, why should you teach ASL? Did you know that ASL is the fastest growing language in high schools and colleges across the United States? Since 2002, it has seen a 532% increase in enrollment in colleges and a 450% increase in enrollment in high schools across the United States. Now really think, it is now 2010 and the trend is still growing significantly. The supply of teachers simply cannot keep up with the demand for ASL teachers!

Depending on level of education and if you are certified by ASLTA, the pay and benefits of teaching American Sign Language can be excellent. Take a look at the job posting that ASLTA provides for potential employment if you’re an ASL teacher. Both private and public high schools are looking for extremely well-educated teachers who can develop a curriculum that allows flexibility to learn American Sign Language at a pace that is comfortable for them.

Lastly, here’s some benefits of teaching and learning American Sign Language as well:

The possibilities are endless. Go find out what yours are!