Sunday, November 18, 2012

Posting #6: Chapters 22-24

Chapter 22:

Before reading this chapter I had always wondered if eye dropping would be the equivalent to eavesdropping. The book states that, “It’s not bad manners to enter a conversation, but it should never be an intrusion. It all depends on the situation and whom you’re with” (pg. 140). I think that I would feel uncomfortable watching a signing conversation and randomly joining in. I think I would feel more comfortable if I had seen that the deaf person had just met the person they were conversing with because then it wouldn’t be so awkward to approach and participate in the conversation.

This chapter also talks a lot about name signs. “A namesign is always bestowed by another Deaf person, and can be a humorous or affectionate way of commemorating a salient detail of a person’s appearance, ethnic identity, habits, passions, or quirks” (pg.141). I currently do not have a name sign. I think it would be awesome to have one and maybe one day I will. I find it amazing to think about all the little things that deaf people miss out on, such as whispering. I never really thought about it before, that a hearing person is able to have a private conversation by whispering where as a deaf person’s conversation is always public and may be interpreted by someone who knows ASL.

Chapter 23:

                I have noticed that most deaf people ask a lot of questions. In class we had talked about how it is sort of just how they are since they miss all of the side conversations that we hear every day so asking questions fills their curiosity. I like that they take the time to ask me questions it makes me think that they actually care and want to get to know me more. After reading this chapter I learned that when a deaf person meets a good signer, “Often such a hearing person will be welcomed into the Deaf community” (pg.144).  I think they appreciate the fact that someone is trying to learn the language. I also learned that sometimes they ask a lot of question in order to see if they can help you and to find out what instructor you are learning from. “Deaf people like to warn hearing students about bad teachers and to encourage them to take classes taught by good ones” (pg.145). I find this gesture sweet and I think it is commendable of them to want to encourage students. I had never heard of the ASLTA certification but I see why they find it important since it is “a reasonably reliable indicator of a teacher’s effectiveness” (pg. 145). I wonder if many schools require or recommend this certification for their teachers.

Chapter 24:

This chapter states that, “Deaf citizens rightfully resent hearing people’s learning ASL so they can take Deaf peoples jobs away while increasing their own power in the Deaf Community” (pg.148). I don’t think they should resent people for wanting to learn ASL. Not every student taking ASL longs to take away their job opportunities. I find that generalized statement very hurtful and offensive. I do understand that some people do learn and use it to their advantage and I think that is wrong.  I agree with the authors when they said that “Learning someone else’s native language to enhance one’s own personal power and make money from their community is a form of exploitation” (pg.148). I think then the deaf community would have a right to be mad but I don’t think they should resent all ASL learners.

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