Course Description

This course delves into the factors that influence language-learning patterns, with a strong emphasis on signed languages. It particularly explores how age and cognitive functions can impact fluency in both signed and spoken languages, addressing how these languages predominantly activate the left hemisphere of the brain.

What Students Will Learn

  • Differences between continuous variation and distinct componentiality in sign language development.
  • Understanding of "linguistic typology" and its relevance.
  • Insights into typological variations within ASL morphology, backed by observational and neuro-linguistic studies.
  • Key stages and milestones in natural sign language acquisition.
  • Comparison of sign language teaching methods for first (L1) and second language (L2) acquisition.
  • Identifying grammatical features shared by home sign systems and fully-developed community sign languages.

Prerequisites

No prior knowledge or skills are needed to enroll in this course, making it accessible to beginners.

Course Coverage

  • Impact of cognitive functions on language learning.
  • Analysis of brain activity in relation to language.
  • Development differences in learning signed versus spoken languages.
  • Exploration of morphological differences across languages.
  • Educational methodologies for teaching sign languages.
  • Neuro-linguistic perspectives on sign language acquisition.

Who This Course Is For

This course is designed for students, educators, and professionals with an interest in linguistics, especially sign languages, as well as anyone curious about how various factors like age and cognition influence language learning and usage.

Real-World Application

Skills acquired from this course can be applied in various fields including education, linguistics research, and language therapy. Understanding the cognitive aspects of language helps in developing better educational programs and tools for language learning. Additionally, these insights are crucial for professionals working with bilingual or multilingual communities, and those focusing on language preservation and sign language interpretation.