This program is so easy to use and is lovely and clear. The next section is a copy of what is posted on the RIDBC website
RIDBC: Auslan Tutor for iPhone and iPod
The Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children is always at the leading edge of using technology, and has recently introduced another innovative resource. Developed with the interests of deaf children as its priority, it will also be useful for families and professionals working with children and adults for whom sign is a significant support for communication because of intellectual disability. From the RIDBC website : RIDBC Auslan Tutor is a portable video-based Australian Sign Language (Auslan) teaching resource developed specifically for the iPhone and iPod touch. It is designed for families of young deaf children to assist them to learn Auslan and promote early communication between parent and child. Over 500 signs are included. These signs were carefully chosen as those most needed by families in their interactions with, and teaching of, their young deaf children. Each sign has five corresponding entries which can be viewed on demand as often as necessary. The five entries are:- a photo of the handshape used to form the sign
- a video clip demonstrating the single sign
- a video clip of the sign used in a phrase
- a video clip of the phrase used in a sentence
- a text note about Auslan grammar that is pertinent to the sign, phrase, or sentence. These notes have been included to help the user gain a basic understanding of the grammatical structure of Auslan.
As well as the 500 signs there are an additional 300 signs that are shown on the screen in a different colour - these are additional signs that do not have all of the above features but are there and if you are already using sign language you can workout and therefore add to your language skills.
What I want to do here is reinforce the fact that this is a wonderful, easy to use resource BUT if you are using Key Word Signing for a child/adult with speech and/or developmental delay you need to be aware of:
- After going thru the whole library of signs I found that there is a huge difference in the signs being shown and what is available in the Makaton Vocabulary and Key Sign (a supplement to the Makaton Vocabulary) Books.
- The variation in signs being used may cause confusion for those using Key Word Signing.
- Now as I mentioned before the books contain Auslan signs and in some instances two variations. But not necessarily the only variations available.
- When the Makaton Vocabulary book was revised in 2001 there was consultation with people from the Deaf Community throughout Australia (each state approaching someone within their area from the Deaf Community). Once it was confirmed that the signs were correct the book went to print. In 2002 Key Signs - a supplement to the Makaton Vocabulary went thru the same process.
- In some instances a sign that is offered maybe what would be referred to as a sign acceptable for a child (easier hand shape or visual comprehension). Also understanding that many users of Makaton (Key Word Signing) have a limited use of language thru comprehension.
- One of the points that constantly come up in Key Word Signing is that all signs are used in correct word order to cut down on confusion for the person needing this form of communication. Therefore the sentence section should not be used as it may cause confusion.
- This resource is brilliant for use with a child that is deaf or for someone who has a child/adult or works with a child/adult that is using AAC, is further down the track and it has been decided that they will need more than the basics that are available thru Makaton.
- These are people like my daughter, Elysha, who truly struggle to be understood verbally, has taken to sign language like a duck to water. Has an understanding & capacity of much more than the basics available thru Makaton, will continue to use sign throughout their lives.
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