What exactly is a sign language? What is its history? Is it a universal language? Is it easier to learn than a spoken language? Does the brain handle a sign language in the same way as a spoken language?

In this presentation, you will learn about research into the linguistic structure of American Sign Language, how it is acquired, and its neural organization. Research into sign language provides us with fascinating and valuable insight into the role that language modality plays in many aspects of human cognition.

For example, is memory for a sign the same as memory for a spoken word? Is “digit span” the same for a signer vs. a speaker? Can young infants learn signs earlier than spoken words? Or, would a child with a language disorder in a spoken language be similarly impaired if they were trying to learn a sign language?

Come and get some answers. No sign language knowledge is required ... and you might even learn a few signs!