I am taking a 205: Intro to ASL college course, i think ASL is beautiful and intriguing. I feel like everyone should know it. Im scared though since i only know the alphabet i’ll be left in the dust quickly?
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Not really. You actually might be a step up on other people since you already know the alphabet.
If it’s an introductory course, then everyone should be starting off knowing practically nothing about the language, yes? If that’s the case, then you’re already ahead of the class because you know the alphabet. ASL is a very beautiful and gratifying language that is also quite simple and flexible. Good luck to you.
Anybody teaching an Intro to ASL course, deaf or hearing, should take you step by step through the basics of conversation in ASL.
You will be able to tell if it’s a good course if there is NO TALKING in the class. Total immersion is the best way to learn FAST. Try not to even talk to other hearing people in the class!
Of course, it’s probably best to have a deaf instructor, but there are many talented CODAs (Children of Deaf Adults), and other people who are close to the deaf community who are well-qualified to teach ASL classes.
Another clue it’s a good course, and the right level for you: you’ll feel slightly out of your depth PART of the time, but the teacher is willing to slow down and/or repeat things you or anyone does not understand. If you feel out of your depth more than about 50% of the time, it shouldn’t be billed as a beginner class. 🙂
You want it to be just challenging enough that you stay on your toes and don’t tune out… without being absolutely terrified all the time.
Good luck! It’s a fascinating language and I think you’ll enjoy it.