Originally Posted by Charismatic

Something that has always confused me about sign language is how can you write a language expressed in physical movement? Like when someone invents a new device or word and you read about it in a magazine how do you express it as a set of movements if you are talking about it to a friend?

Originally Posted by BEVS

Given that sign language is an official language here I feel it should be funded. It;s not exactly a jolly ole luxury is it.

Originally Posted by Charismatic

You know, the elected Green MP who wants funding to get a sign language interpreter so she can actually do her job.

Originally Posted by Nabbie

I would like to point there are many misconceptions over Deaf definition.

Born-deaf or profoundly deaf persons are usually using native sign language and they belong to the very minority in the society. They are often not treated well due to the employment disadvantage. For instance, Can Deaf person do the role of MP?

Sign language is a natural fluent just like everybody are speaking every day. The big difference to use that is to visualize through eyes instead of ears. If anyone is willing to take 30 to 60 hours to grasp the concept of basic sign language depending on their learning paces. This will be a BIG help to many Deaf individuals. I am born-deaf myself and my overall employment career is a complete disappointment. Strangely, I become an expat over a couple of years.

May I ask how many of you have ever tried to use sign language in your education? I believe the integration is the most important part of the society.

Finally do you know what does thumbs up mean?

Originally Posted by Batty

My parents had deaf and dumb friends when I was growing up and we learned the 'old fashioned' sign language - actually spelling out each letter of the alphabet. We never felt that we weren't 'talking' to them. I regret not keeping it up and learning modern sign language but maybe that's something to think about.

I think the whole episode with Mojo was blown out of proportion by the Greens (and I voted for them) - they like to stick it to the man!

Originally Posted by Nabbie

Yes, many acquaintances of mine have said that same thing to me so don't blame yourself. Deaf organisations are still trying to encourage the government from many countries to accept sign language as part of school curriculum. Fingerspelling is, of course, a real pain and it is not a natural fluent. Signing is generally based on feeling, movement and space. Moreover the hands are very useful to support the face expression. I have been teaching the students over 8 years. I notice they are very scared in the first day and it looks as though I am the ghost! However I am relieved to confirm most of them are enjoying to learn how throughout the course. Lots of laughs and they realise that sign language is a natural fluent just like other many spoken languages. Which country do you live from?

Originally Posted by Batty

Hi, I'm from Ireland I can't imagine why sign language wouldn't be taught in schools, there should be nothing stopping deaf kids from attending mainstream school.