If you are passionate about supporting the deaf and hard of hearing, a career as an American Sign Language (ASL) teacher may be ideal.
ASL teachers play a crucial role in connecting deaf and hearing individuals within a shared culture. They also offer deaf students the opportunity to learn subjects typically taught only in spoken language.
Wondering how to learn American Sign Language? One effective way is by taking private online ASL lessons. Platforms like Superprof offer a range of tutors who can help provide the best way to learn ASL.
This article will give you a quick look at becoming an ASL teacher, covering the education you need, the potential income, and more.
Exploring the Role of an ASL Teacher: Responsibilities and Impact
ASL is more than a communication tool for deaf people; it's intertwined with their culture. ASL teachers empower students to be independent, fostering communication between deaf and hearing individuals.
ASL teachers know that sign language is intertwined with the culture of deaf people, much like English and Italian are to native speakers. Therefore, ASL tutors and teachers are similar to other language instructors. They help their pupils partake fully in deaf culture and foster communication between deaf and hearing individuals.
By empowering students to be independent and encouraging their social growth within the diverse tapestry of world cultures, ASL teachers contribute significantly to the education and social progress of the deaf community.
They teach practical skills for fluent ASL use, impacting lives in various ways:
- Guiding deaf pupils on how to operate in the hearing world
- Supporting increased independence for deaf students
- Inspiring deaf pupils to aspire and overcome challenges
- Providing non-deaf students the opportunity to learn ASL and communicate with the deaf
- Facilitating confident and fluid ASL use for both deaf and hearing students
The Importance of Teaching Sign Language
As the third most commonly used language in the US, ASL is vital for people who are hard of hearing and those with speech impairments.
If you want to become a certified teacher, one effective way is to take Superprof sign language classes – they have a wide pool of tutors in ASL who can help.
Nevertheless, here are a few reasons why it's crucial to teach in ASL:
Strengthens the Bond Between Infants and Parents
Research suggests that teaching infants and toddlers basic sign language can significantly improve communication between parents and children. This enhances understanding and boosts a child's confidence and self-esteem in the long run.
Young children often struggle to express their feelings, leading to frustration. Teaching them sign language enables them to communicate their basic needs.
This helps reduce tantrums and fosters a stronger connection between parents and children through eye contact and touch.
Surprisingly, infants as young as eight months can start recognizing and using signs for everyday concepts like hunger or tiredness.
Enhanced Spatial Reasoning
Proficiency in ASL may improve spatial reasoning, according to a study from the University of Massachusetts.
However, more research is needed to corroborate the claim.
Improved Reaction Times & Peripheral Vision
Sign language can positively impact reaction times and peripheral vision, benefitting hearing and deaf individuals.
One study found that hearing adults who learned sign language responded quicker and improved peripheral visual sensitivity. However, deaf adults showed even better reaction times.
This supports the idea that the lack of one sense – such as hearing – may boost others, like sight.
Looking for online ASL classes? Find everything you're looking for on Superprof!
Long-Term Cognitive Benefits
Similar to learning a spoken second language, learning to sign from a young age may offer long-term cognitive benefits.
A study revealed that teaching babies sign language led to heightened reasoning skills and increased IQ by an average of 122 points.
Another decade-long study found that children learning ASL alongside their regular curriculum demonstrated higher reading levels and a 15-20% improvement in vocabulary compared to their peers.
These are some benefits you can provide to people in need when you become a sign language teacher.
Now that you know how crucial sign language is, let's find out how exactly you can become an ASL teacher.
How to Become a Sign Language Teacher?
Wondering what are the teacher qualifications for an ASL teacher?
Believe it or not, becoming a sign language teacher opens the door to an exciting and fulfilling career. While you may need passion and dedication, the path to success is simple.
Although there are many, one of the best ways to learn sign language is by taking Superprof online ASL lessons. Their ASL tutors will help you master all the required tricks and concepts so you can become a pro sign language teacher and apply to various ASL teacher jobs.
Moreover, they provide both online and in-person lessons. Check out this article to know more about online vs. in-person training.
Nonetheless, here are four steps to guide you on your journey to becoming an American Sign Language (ASL) teacher.
Take an Educational Path
Qualifications to be a certified teacher in American sign language often vary based on where you plan to work.
If you aim to teach ASL in continuing education centers, businesses, or other organizations, some training or experience will likely be necessary.
However, if you aim to teach sign language in schools, you'll need at least a bachelor's degree in deaf education or American Sign Language.
During your undergraduate studies, it's important to take courses in special education or other related fields like child psychology, along with classes in deaf studies and ASL.
A four-year program will cover teaching methods and explore education across various age groups. To enhance your understanding, you might consider a dual major in ASL and deaf culture.
Many ASL experts believe that it may take four years of extensive language study to teach ASL.
If you pursue a master's degree in education, it'll provide additional teaching preparation and help you earn more.
Many programs also include state licensing, though some states offer reciprocity. It's advised to check with both the program and the specific state board of education for details.
Obtain a Teaching License
If you aim to work in public schools, getting a teaching license is crucial.
Requirements vary by state and may involve supervised teaching experience and passing subject area exams.
Moreover, prospective sign language teachers might also need an endorsement in ASL.
Apply for Certification
The "American Sign Language Teachers Association (ASLTA)" provides national certification in sign language teaching at two levels, i.e., Certified and Master.
Additionally, the "Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID)" offers national interpreter certification, involving a knowledge exam, interview, and performance exam.
Engage in Continuing Education
To maintain certifications and licenses, sign language tutors and teachers engage in continuing education.
ASLTA certification can be renewed by submitting examples of professional development, including post-certification teaching history and proof of teaching experience, workshops, and mentorships. The requirements vary by state and certification level.
Continuing education is vital for staying current on knowledge and skills. It helps teachers address common phrases, such as learning how to sign money in ASL or communicating 'what do you want' in sign language.
Find ASL classes with qualified teachers on Superprof today!
Types Of ASL Teachers
The path to becoming a sign language teacher often depends on whether you prefer to teach ASL to deaf individuals (and their parents) or to those who can hear. Or, you can use ASL as a tool to assist deaf students in grasping other academic subjects.
Let's explore each career path in more detail.
ASL Teachers For Hearing People
If you choose this path, you'll be instructing people who can hear. Think of yourself as akin to a foreign language teacher. Individuals who wish to learn American sign language will enroll in your classes.
ASL Teachers For Deaf Students (Along With Their Parents)
In this ASL job, you'll teach deaf pupils and their parents.
Deaf children born to parents already adept in ASL naturally acquire the language, similar to how hearing children learn spoken language from their hearing parents.
However, it's essential to note that the majority of deaf children, approximately nine out of ten, are born to parents who can hear.
ASL Classroom Interpreters
Like hearing students, deaf pupils want to learn other subjects such as math, science, social studies, and literature.
However, when these subjects are taught in spoken language by hearing instructors, deaf students can fully participate only with the assistance of an ASL classroom interpreter.
Discover sign language classes near me when you search for a tutor on Superprof!
Jobs For Sign Language Teachers Beyond Teaching
With additional certification or education, ASL teachers can explore various career paths, such as becoming librarians, assistant principals, instructional coordinators, principals, or educational administrators at colleges or universities.
Let's explore what career opportunities for sign language teachers are there other than just teaching:
- Librarian: To work as a librarian, you typically need a master's degree in library science (MLS). Some states may also mandate passing a standardized test for librarian positions.
- Instructional Coordinator: Those interested in instructional coordination usually pursue a master's degree related to subjects like curriculum and instruction. Additionally, they may be required to hold a teaching or education administrator license
- Academic Advisor: Transitioning into an academic advisor role at either the K-12 or university level often requires a master's degree in an education-related field
- Education Consultant: sign language teachers can become education consultants to address challenges in various school systems. Typically, an advanced degree in an education-related subject is beneficial for this role
- Education Policy Analyst: By obtaining advanced degrees in education-related subjects, ASL teachers can become policy analysts, examining broad issues that impact education on a national scale
- School Principal: ASL teachers who aspire to become school principals are advised to pursue a master's degree in any education-related field. Moreover, most states mandate public school principals to be licensed as school administrators.
- Educational Administrator: Depending on the specific role, a bachelor's or master's degree may be required. Higher-level positions, such as president or dean, may necessitate a master's degree or doctorate in educational leadership.
How Much Money Do Sign Language Teachers Make?
Although ASL teacher salaries vary based on factors like location, experience, and education, the average salary is $54,210 in the US.
While the annual sign language teacher's salary ranges from $38,000 to $67,000, the hourly rate can be anywhere between $26-$31 per hour.
Washington, New York, Colorado, Illinois, and Maryland are some of the states that offer the best pay scale for sign language teachers.
| State | Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $66,243 | $5,520 | $1,273 | $31.85 |
| Colorado | $65,548 | $5,462 | $1,260 | $31.51 |
| Delaware | $61,408 | $5,117 | $1,180 | $29.52 |
| Illinois | $60,790 | $5,065 | $1,169 | $29.23 |
| New York | $60,706 | $5,058 | $1,167 | $29.19 |
| Virginia | $60,434 | $5,036 | $1,162 | $29.06 |
| Maryland | $59,451 | $4,954 | $1,143 | $28.58 |
Take ASL Lessons From Private Tutors
If you want to know how to learn sign language or enhance your skilols, look no further than Superprof! Their sign language lesson plans can help open doors for you to connect using your hands, face, and body, expanding communication beyond just your voice.
Learning sign language can help enhance brain function and communication skills.
Their sign language tutors will work with you to create a tailor-made course. Moreover, you'll get individualized attention and can learn at your own pace.
Before you start with your ASL tutor, we recommend browsing several tutor profiles before deciding. Check out their educational background, experience, and reviews from previous students.
Why wait anymore? Take Superprof ASL lessons in your hometown to become a sign language teacher! Find sign language classes near me today!
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