Learning American Sign Language (ASL) opens up a world of communication and connection. Fortunately, numerous free resources are available online, making ASL accessible to anyone with an internet connection. This guide explores a variety of platforms and tools where you can begin your ASL journey without spending a dime.
Free Online Sign Language Courses
These comprehensive courses offer structured lessons, often mimicking a traditional classroom setting.
American Sign Language University (ASLU)
ASLU provides a wealth of free resources, including 60 lessons, a searchable dictionary, a numbers guide, fingerspelling practice tools, quizzes, and word search puzzles. Video lessons are organized by difficulty, enabling progressive learning. The “First 100 Signs” section is particularly helpful for beginners, focusing on common signs used in parent-child communication.
Sign Language 101
Dr. Byron W. Bridges offers 12 free ASL units covering basic vocabulary (greetings, food, school), emotions, and conversational phrases. Quizzes are integrated throughout the lessons to reinforce learning. While the free version lacks certificates and exams, it provides a solid foundation in ASL basics. Additional videos are available on their YouTube channel.
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Start ASL
Start ASL’s free ASL 1 course boasts over 80 lessons with accompanying videos and printable workbooks. The curriculum progresses from foundational signs to more complex conversations and storytelling.
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ASL Connect (Gallaudet University)
Gallaudet University, a renowned institution for deaf and hard-of-hearing education, offers ASL Connect. This program features over 20 videos covering various topics, including colors, letters, numbers, sports, family, weather, and basic needs.
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SignSchool
SignSchool offers a structured curriculum with beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. Lessons build upon each other, but learners can choose their starting point. Supplementary resources include a fingerspelling game and a “sign of the day” feature.
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Free Sign Language Learning Apps
Mobile apps provide the flexibility to learn ASL anytime, anywhere.
The ASL App
The ASL App offers a self-paced learning experience with lessons on the alphabet, numbers, common gestures, colors, and basic signs. Hand shape exercises help develop signing dexterity.
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Teachers Paradise ASL Fingerspelling Game
This Android app utilizes flashcards and interactive activities to teach fingerspelling, a crucial component of ASL.
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Marlee Signs
This iOS app features video-based instruction from actress Marlee Matlin. It covers fingerspelling, common words, and conversational phrases, allowing for personalized learning.
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Other Free Resources
Printable sign language charts offer a convenient way to review signs offline. Online ASL games provide an engaging method to practice and reinforce learned vocabulary.
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With this array of free resources, learning ASL is more accessible than ever. Whether you prefer structured courses, interactive apps, or printable charts, you can find the tools that best suit your learning style and embark on your ASL journey today.
