This non-credit IAP class is an introduction to elementary aspects of American Sign Language and to Deaf culture for those with no prior experience. Sessions will focus on gaining specific areas of basic understanding/competency which can be applied to later introductory studies of ASL. Participants will also interact with topics including the role of ASL in Deaf history, current culture, and others.

Sessions will be led by Andrew Bottoms. Andrew Bottoms was born and raised in a Deaf family from North Carolina and American Sign Language (ASL) is his native language. Bottoms graduated from Gallaudet University with two bachelor degrees, one in American Sign Language (ASL) and the other in Deaf Studies.

Enrollment is limited to 20 participants with the expectation of attendance at all 10 sessions. Open to members of the MIT community.

Registration  opens November 25 at 2:00pm, using this link (Kerberos credentials required): Intro to ASL Application Form.

Registration will close on December 6th, or sooner if an excessive number of applications are received before the deadline. All registrants will be contacted by December 13th with confirmation of enrollment or information on placement in a wait list (in the event of over-enrollment).

For more information contact languages@mit.edu.