Understanding Basic Sign Language. Distance Learning

Course description

Approximately 40,000 deaf and hearing people overall use Irish Sign Language (ISL) either as their first language or in addition to their first language on a daily basis in Ireland. The Understanding Basic Sign Language distance learning course will give a concise overview of ISL, basic signs and instructions for their use. Students will gain an understanding of the problems and barriers that people who have a hearing loss can experience. It will also outline basic strategies hearing people can use to communicate respectfully and effectively with deaf people.

By choosing to study this course with Portobello Institute, students will have access to course materials from our online learning centre for the duration of the course. The course materials for this certified course are thorough and easy to read and can be downloaded in your own time and from the comfort of your own home. You will also be assigned a personal tutor for the duration of the course who will help you with any challenges you may encounter. In addition you will be able to upload assignments online and receive online feedback. You can use our online learning centre from any computer that has internet access. However, access to a computer is not compulsory as we can arrange for everything to be processed by post. There is an administration fee of €30 for this service.

Qualifications Gained
•Portobello Institute Certificate in Basic Sign Language

Entry Requirements

Entry to this course is by direct application to the college. There are no previous academic requirements.

Course Structure

As this course is distance learning the student works at their own pace.  Each student has 6 months to complete this course.

Course Delivery
•Online Learning Centre (requires internet access), or
•By Post (note that there is an admin fee of €30 for postal students)

Course Content Modules
1.Background to Sign Language in Ireland
2.Communication Strategies and Body Positioning
3.ISL Alphabet and Finger Spelling
4.Basic Communication
5.Interacting with a Deaf Person
6.ISL in Practice

Assessment Criteria

One short assignment will be required to successfully complete this course.

Who is the course aimed at?

This course is suitable for anyone with an interest in understanding basic sign language be it a personal or professional interest.

Further Studies

Portobello Institute offers a number of short distance learning courses including:
•FETAC Special Needs Education (Level 5)
•Mental Health Awareness (Level 5)
•Intellectual Disability Studies (Level 5)
•Social Care Studies (Level 5)