Sorry, this page is no longer available
We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Legacy Learning Systems

Learn & Master Sign Language will teach you all you need to know in order to master the beautiful language of American Sign Language. Professional instructors, Dr. Byron Bridges, and Stacey Webb, have designed each interactive lesson to give you a solid foundation in the basics and advanced signing. Each chapter provides basic lessons, quizzes with and without answers, vocabulary video index with each word taught in the lesson, fingerspelling practice at three different speeds, a section in each lesson on varying numbers, book activities, narrative practice, dialogue practice, and highlight and tips about deaf culture.

Read more

Learn & Master Sign Language will teach you all you need to know in order to master the beautiful language of American Sign Language. Professional instructors, Dr. Byron Bridges, and Stacey Webb, have designed each interactive lesson to give you a solid foundation in the basics and advanced signing. Each chapter provides basic lessons, quizzes with and without answers, vocabulary video index with each word taught in the lesson, fingerspelling practice at three different speeds, a section in each lesson on varying numbers, book activities, narrative practice, dialogue practice, and highlight and tips about deaf culture.

Learn & Master Sign Language contains 25 sessions on 25 professionally produced instructional DVDs, a detailed Lesson Book that follows the sessions, and access to the free online student support site. It is the only instructional package you'll ever need to master the receptive and the expressive components of sign language. After completing this course, you'll be able to communicate within deaf culture with confidence.

Our Mission: Bringing Personal Dreams Within Reach

Since most of us have that something we've always wanted to learn speak a language, to paint, or dance, or play an instrument. These are personal dreams we hold dear, but as time passes and life gets in the way, these dreams can sometimes slip farther and farther out of reach. Formal schooling is often out of the question for busy adults. Private lessons are pricey and inconvenient. So how do we re-kindle these dreams and make them come true? That is the mission of Legacy Learning Systems: To make difficult skills accessible through multimedia self-education courses and bring personal dreams within reach.

What Should You Expect from the Learn & Master Sign Language course?

Everything is in One Place — With L&M Sign Language, your lessons are laid out in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step progression with everything you need in one place. Each lesson builds on the lesson before it, so you won’t miss anything. No need to buy countless training videos from a patchwork of sources.

A Comprehensive Course — Even though this course is designed for beginners, it takes you far beyond the basics of the typical instructional DVD. We get you started quickly, but your lessons will take you as far along the path to mastery as you care to go. You won't find a more comprehensive multimedia training course for sign language anywhere.

Support Along the Way — Perhaps the most important thing is that you won't have to learn alone. Our online support community is an integral part of the learning process and is free for all of our students. The instructors will be on the Discussion Boards and will be there for you when you have questions or need encouragement. Students who participate in this community are able to discuss their progress, post their questions (and recordings), as well as interact with other students as much they wish. Our job is not finished when you buy the Learn & Master Sign Language course. It is done when you have reached your dream of communicating with others using American Sign Language.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Learn and master sign language is structured around a different topic you'd find in everyday life and is filled with vocabulary, sentences, narratives, and dialogues. you'll have tons of practice to learn the language! learn & master sign language will prepare you to sign with confidence! you've just found the world's most comprehensive video instruction course for learning american sign language. dr. byron bridges and stacey webb simplify the process of learning american sign language by teaching you step-by-step receptive and expressive components of the language.
  • Start with the basics: introductions, gesturing, the alphabet members of the family, and more.
  • Progress to advanced techniques: expansion features, classifiers, storytelling, and more.
  • Literally thousands of signs you can use in your everyday life are covered in this course, including how to communicate during emergencies, everyday activities, facts about the dynamic deaf culture, interacting at sporting events, and more.

Syllabus

Course Introduction and Tools
Course Introduction
Learn & Master Sign Language Lesson Book
Lesson 1: The Basics of ASL
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides thorough practice through vocabulary, sentences, narratives, and dialogues, ensuring familiarity with the language and fostering confidence in signing
Taught by recognized instructors, Dr. Byron Bridges and Stacey Webb, who simplify the learning process and provide expert guidance
Covers a wide range of topics, including everyday activities, emergency communication, and deaf culture, making it applicable in various real-world scenarios
Progresses from basic introductions and gestures to advanced techniques like classifiers and storytelling, catering to both beginners and intermediate learners
Emphasizes support throughout the learning journey through an online community and instructor availability for questions and encouragement
Provides access to a comprehensive Lesson Book that complements the video lessons, ensuring a structured and cohesive learning experience

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Comprehensive asl course with mixed feedback

According to students, Learn & Master Sign Language is a highly comprehensive program that covers a vast amount of vocabulary, grammar, and valuable deaf culture information. Learners appreciate the structured, step-by-step approach and the professional instructors who make the content accessible. However, a significant point of concern raised by reviewers is the dated DVD format and, more critically, the perceived inactivity or lack of support from the online community, which the course promotes as a key resource. This can lead to a feeling of isolation for some. While the core material is often praised, potential students should be aware it may require supplementing the self-study with external practice partners due to the quiet online environment.
Relies on DVDs, not streaming.
"Using DVDs feels a bit old-fashioned compared to streaming options."
"While the content is good, the physical DVD format is inconvenient now."
"I wish this course was available in a more modern digital format."
Significant time commitment needed.
"This is a serious course that requires dedication and consistent practice."
"It's not a quick learning method; be prepared to invest a lot of time."
"Learning sign language well takes effort, and this course demands that."
Includes important cultural insights.
"The sections on Deaf culture are invaluable and add depth to the learning."
"I learned so much about the community, not just the language."
"Including cultural highlights makes the course more respectful and complete."
Step-by-step lessons build skills.
"The step-by-step approach is very helpful for beginners like me."
"Lessons build upon each other logically, making it easy to follow."
"I found the structured progression through topics made learning less intimidating."
Covers extensive vocabulary & grammar.
"The course is very comprehensive. It includes a lot of vocabulary and grammar points..."
"It really is comprehensive, covering signs you would need in everyday life and more."
"I appreciate how much material is covered from basics to more complex concepts."
Online support is not responsive.
"The online community was supposed to be a key feature but seems completely inactive."
"I had questions I couldn't get answered because the online forum wasn't used by others."
"If you expect interactive online support, this course might disappoint."
"I felt isolated studying without a live community to practice with or ask questions."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Learn & Master Sign Language with these activities:
Start a study group with classmates
Deepen your understanding of sign language by forming a study group with classmates. This will provide opportunities for discussions, practice, and mutual support.
Show steps
  • Identify classmates who are also interested in forming a study group
  • Schedule regular study sessions
  • Take turns leading discussions and sharing knowledge
Practice fingerspelling drills
Sharpen your fingerspelling skills by practicing drills. This will improve your accuracy and speed, making it easier to communicate.
Browse courses on Fingerspelling
Show steps
  • Use online fingerspelling exercises
  • Practice fingerspelling with a partner
  • Time yourself to see how many letters you can fingerspell in a minute
Create a sign language dictionary
Develop a personal reference guide by compiling a sign language dictionary. This will help in quickly searching for signs and remembering them in the long run.
Browse courses on Vocabulary Building
Show steps
  • Choose a format for your dictionary (e.g., notebook, digital spreadsheet)
  • Organize your dictionary by category (e.g., food, animals, verbs)
  • Research and gather signs from reliable sources
  • Practice signing the words in your dictionary
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Record yourself signing a story
Boost your signing fluency by recording yourself narrating a story. This will not only enhance your signing skills but also allow you to identify areas for improvement.
Browse courses on Storytelling
Show steps
  • Choose a story that you are familiar with
  • Practice signing the story several times
  • Record yourself signing the story
  • Review your recording and identify areas for improvement
Volunteer as a sign language interpreter
Make a meaningful contribution while solidifying your sign language skills by volunteering as an interpreter. This real-world experience will enhance your fluency and provide invaluable insights into the deaf community.
Browse courses on Community Involvement
Show steps
  • Contact local organizations that work with the deaf community
  • Inquire about volunteer opportunities
  • Complete the necessary training and certification
  • Volunteer regularly and provide sign language interpretation services

Career center

Learners who complete Learn & Master Sign Language will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Sign Language Interpreter
Sign Language Interpreters demand will increase as the deaf and hard of hearing population grows. The current shortage of qualified interpreters means many employment opportunities are available nationwide. Learn & Master Sign Language provides a solid foundation for communicating with deaf individuals. You'll learn the basics of American Sign Language, from hand gestures and body movements to the grammar and syntax of the language. This course will help you build the skills you need to become a successful Sign Language Interpreter.
Special Education Teacher
Special Education Teachers help students with disabilities develop their academic, social, and communication skills. They may teach students with a range of disabilities, including hearing impairments. Learn & Master Sign Language can provide you with the skills you need to communicate with deaf or hard of hearing students, creating a more welcoming and inclusive learning environment for all students.
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-Language Pathologists are in high demand as the population ages and the need for communication services grows. They may work with individuals with a range of communication disorders, including hearing impairments. Learn & Master Sign Language can help you build the skills you need to communicate with deaf or hard of hearing individuals, increasing your effectiveness as a Speech-Language Pathologist.
Audiologist
Audiologists diagnose and treat hearing loss and balance disorders. They may work with individuals with a range of hearing impairments, including those who use sign language. Learn & Master Sign Language can help you build the skills you need to communicate with deaf or hard of hearing individuals, providing you with a valuable tool for your work as an Audiologist.
Early Childhood Educator
Early Childhood Educators provide care and education to young children, including those with disabilities. They may work in a variety of settings, such as preschools, daycare centers, and Head Start programs. Learn & Master Sign Language can provide you with the skills you need to communicate with deaf or hard of hearing children, creating a more welcoming and inclusive learning environment for all children.
Social Worker
Social Workers help individuals and families navigate difficult life situations. They may work with individuals with a range of disabilities, including hearing impairments. Learn & Master Sign Language can help you build the skills you need to communicate with deaf or hard of hearing individuals, increasing your effectiveness as a Social Worker.
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapists help people with disabilities develop the skills they need to live independently. They may work with individuals with a range of disabilities, including hearing impairments. Learn & Master Sign Language can help you build the skills you need to communicate with deaf or hard of hearing individuals, increasing your effectiveness as an Occupational Therapist.
Physical Therapist
Physical Therapists help people with disabilities improve their mobility and function. They may work with individuals with a range of disabilities, including hearing impairments. Learn & Master Sign Language can help you build the skills you need to communicate with deaf or hard of hearing individuals, increasing your effectiveness as a Physical Therapist.
Psychologist
Psychologists help people with mental health issues. They may work with individuals with a range of disabilities, including hearing impairments. Learn & Master Sign Language can help you build the skills you need to communicate with deaf or hard of hearing individuals, increasing your effectiveness as a Psychologist.
Nurse
Nurses provide care to patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. They may work with individuals with a range of disabilities, including hearing impairments. Learn & Master Sign Language can help you build the skills you need to communicate with deaf or hard of hearing patients, increasing your effectiveness as a Nurse.
Doctor
Doctors diagnose and treat diseases and injuries. They may work with individuals with a range of disabilities, including hearing impairments. Learn & Master Sign Language can help you build the skills you need to communicate with deaf or hard of hearing patients, increasing your effectiveness as a Doctor.
Lawyer
Lawyers represent clients in legal matters. They may work with individuals with a range of disabilities, including hearing impairments. Learn & Master Sign Language can help you build the skills you need to communicate with deaf or hard of hearing clients, increasing your effectiveness as a Lawyer.
Salesperson
Salespeople sell products or services to customers. They may work in a variety of settings, including retail stores, offices, and over the phone. Learn & Master Sign Language can help you build the skills you need to communicate with deaf or hard of hearing customers, increasing your effectiveness as a Salesperson.
Customer Service Representative
Customer Service Representatives provide assistance to customers. They may work in a variety of settings, including call centers, retail stores, and online. Learn & Master Sign Language can help you build the skills you need to communicate with deaf or hard of hearing customers, increasing your effectiveness as a Customer Service Representative.
Teacher
Teachers provide instruction to students. They may work in a variety of settings, including schools, colleges, and universities. Learn & Master Sign Language may be useful for Teachers who work with deaf or hard of hearing students, as it can help them build the skills they need to communicate with these students.

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Learn & Master Sign Language.
This dictionary provides a comprehensive listing of ASL signs and valuable resource for students who want to expand their vocabulary. It includes over 8,000 signs and provides clear illustrations and definitions.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of Deaf studies, with a focus on language. It is an essential resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the latest research on ASL and other sign languages.
This journal provides a forum for the latest research on Deaf studies. It is an essential resource for anyone who wants to stay up-to-date on the latest research in the field.
Provides a collection of essays and stories from Deaf people about their experiences and perspectives. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the Deaf community and its culture.
Provides a collection of common ASL phrases and valuable resource for students who want to improve their communication skills. It includes over 1,000 phrases and provides clear illustrations and definitions.
Provides a good overview of how scholars and other professionals research, discuss, and theorize around Deaf culture, language, access, education, and other topics.
This dictionary provides many signs outside of the American Sign Language (ASL) vocabulary taught in the course.
A comprehensive guide to ASL, this book provides a good introduction and overview, as well as many useful signs.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser