Date submitted: 3 July 2006 Having been a feature writer for various magazines and newspapers and also an English language teacher for more than 10 years, I personally feel that sign language is one of the most expressive and beautiful language I have ever known. Sign language is the only language in the world that involves hand signs, facial expressions and body language. The beautiful thing about sign language is - it can express the severity of a situation or emotion with such graphic detail that written or spoken language may not be able to. Although I am almost 70% deaf, I have never used sign language until I was 23 years old. I learnt sign language at PMY from Lucy, a qualified interpreter and Koon Wei, the only deaf linguistics expert in Malaysia. I was very lucky to learn from them. I have finished the final level of the sign language course. The courses here are well-structured and learner-based. Students are given ample of opportunity to interact with deaf people, learn about their culture and community. These courses are well-rounded that you don't only get to learn the language but also participate in their activities and get a glimpse of how they think, their struggles and understand them. It was only through these courses that I had more confidence in teaching deaf students. Yogeswari Veerakathy |
Date submitted: 18 May 2006 I was a little doubtful about learning the sign language when my friend introduced it to me a year ago. But now I have no regrets and even feel proud for knowing such a beautiful language. It not only helps me communicate with the deaf, it also allows me to reflect on my own life. My teachers have been extremely kind in helping me pick up this language. And I really thank them for being patient with me when I make silly mistakes in class. By taking this step, I have made some wonderful friends, people who are patient, caring and fun loving. A truly magnificent bunch. It is really satisfying to be able to communicate and share your feelings with the deaf. At first, I thought it would be awkward to go for outings with the deaf, but now I love it. In fact, I learn more and experience more when I go out with them. Throughout the past year, I have been involving myself in some of the events that the deaf have organized. I find it all fun and meaningful. These people really do know how to enjoy! Since joining this huge family, I feel a greater sense of belonging. Life is a promise, so fulfill it. Joyce Hue |
Date submitted: 15 May 2006 Through Sign Language course assignments, I mingled with the Deaf community. I was very nervous when I sign with the Deaf group, but so far they are very patient with me. They help to correct my mistakes. I did not have any Deaf friends but now I have made several Deaf friends. Furthermore, there are many activities for us to attend such as workshop, seminar, outing and many more opportunities to enhance our sign. Not only that, we can also participate as volunteers and we can really gain first - hand experience working with the Deaf community. I am very glad that I have gained some personal experience with the Deaf when I volunteer in some of their events. In addition, the instructors also help me a lot throughout the whole basic and level one course. They patiently repeat and repeat each sign with me as I am a slow learner. Besides that, they are very friendly, passionate and dedicated. Cheers! Yip Ga Wae |
Date submitted: 9 May 2006 It has been almost 1/2 a year, I've been learning Sign Language, another month to go and hopefully I make it to Level 2. This 1/2 a year has open my eyes and perception towards the Deaf and their culture. Foremost, the teachers are great and ever patient to our queries and of course signing in slow motion so that we could absorb. And repeating the signs again and again because students like me keeps on signing "forget" : ). |