Learning sign language can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to communicate with the Deaf community and others with hearing loss.
If you’re interested in learning sign language, apps are a convenient and affordable alternative to classes. They offer bite-sized tutorials, games, and quizzes that let you learn at your own pace.
In this article, Insiderbits gathered the best apps for learning sign language, including American Sign Language (ASL) and other sign languages. We’ve considered quality content, user feedback, and techniques for teaching sign language, as well as special features that make the experience enjoyable and valuable.
Top 3 Best Sign Language Apps
The ASL App
This app is available for iOS and Android. It offers video lessons taught by a Deaf instructor, as well as a dictionary with over 5,000 signs. The app is free to use with optional in-app purchases.
Pros
- Quality content;
- User-friendly interface;
- It has a dictionary with regional signs.
Cons
- The free version has ads.
3.8/5
SignSchool
This app offers hundreds of sign topics, multiple-choice games, and a dictionary with different dialects. The app was created by a trio of friends, including a Deaf person.
Pros
- A diverse group of signers and dialects;
- A daily reminder to learn a new sign.
Cons
- Some users found the app to be slow and buggy.
3.8/5
Lingvano
This app is available only for iOS and has over 10,000 downloads. It offers daily, 10-minute lessons taught by Deaf teachers, as well as a vocabulary trainer to develop long-term memory. The app is free to use with optional in-app purchases.
Pros
- Practical conversation skills
- Deaf teachers.
Cons
- The app is only available for iOS;
- A premium subscription is required to unlock all learning content and features.
4.7/5
How Do Sign Language Apps Work
Sign language apps work by providing interactive tools such as images, videos, games, dictionaries, and bite-sized lessons to help users learn sign language on their smartphones or tablets.
These apps offer features such as translation capabilities, dictionaries, and lessons, allowing users to learn at their own pace and practice everyday words, phrases, and expressions.
Many apps also include video demonstrations of signs, interactive games, and quizzes to engage users and make the learning experience enjoyable.
Additionally, some apps offer regional signs or support for other sign languages, catering to a diverse range of users. Overall, sign language apps are a convenient and effective way to learn and practice sign language.
Can Sign Language Apps Be Used Offline?
Yes, many sign language apps can be used offline, making them convenient for learning on the go. These apps typically provide access to videos, images, and interactive lessons without requiring an internet connection.
Users can learn and practice sign language at their own pace, whether they are on a bus, in a coffee shop, or any location without internet access.
This offline functionality makes sign language apps a flexible and accessible option for individuals who want to learn sign language at their own convenience.
Are Sign Language Apps Effective In Teaching ASL?
Sign language apps can be effective in teaching American Sign Language (ASL) and other sign languages, as they offer various features and learning tools to help users learn at their own pace. Some of the key features of sign language apps include:
Quality content: Apps like The ASL App, Hands on ASL, and SignSchool provide high-quality content, including videos, images, and interactive lessons.
User feedback: Apps like Ace ASL offer sign recognition technology that provides feedback on your accuracy, helping you improve your skills.
Games and quizzes: Many apps, such as SignSchool and Baby Sign Language ASL Kids, use games and quizzes to make learning more engaging and fun.
Dictionaries: Apps like ASL Dictionary and InterSign ASL provide extensive dictionaries with thousands of signs and phrases.
Offline access: Some apps, like Baby Sign Language ASL Kids, allow users to access content offline, making learning more convenient.
While sign language apps can be effective in teaching ASL and other sign languages, it’s essential to remember that practice is crucial for improving your skills. By combining app usage with real-life practice and exposure to the Deaf community, you can enhance your learning experience and become more proficient in sign language.
TOP 3 Best Apps for Learning Sign Language
In conclusion, learning sign language through apps can be a fun and engaging way to communicate with the Deaf community and others with hearing loss.
The top 3 best sign language apps, based on rating and number of downloads, are The ASL App, SignSchool, and Lingvano. Each app offers unique features and benefits, such as quality content, user-friendly interfaces, and a diverse group of signers and dialects.
By choosing one of these apps, you can start learning sign language at your own pace and convenience. Remember, practice is key to mastering sign language, so keep practicing and enjoy the journey of learning this valuable skill.
Like this article? Add the Insiderbits blog to your favorites and visit us whenever you want to learn new and exciting information about technology and much more!