SINGAPORE SIGN LANGUAGE PROGRAMME
Interested in learning a deaf language and exploring a new culture? Singapore Sign Language (SgSL) is our native sign language recognised and accepted by the Deaf community in Singapore. SgSL comprises a combination of Shanghainese Sign Language (SSL), American Sign Language (ASL), Signing Exact English (SEE) and locally developed signs.
A “no-voice” teaching method is used to reinforce the learning experience. Participants learn through classroom instruction and role-play, as well as storytelling and handouts.
The SgSL course comprises of three levels:
- Level One aims to develop capabilities in non-verbal, visual-gestural communication as well as the study of gestures as a form of communication, and visual language basics. Theme based and including activities in expressive and receptive skills, the course focuses on training learners in basic functions such as greetings and introductions. It also emphasises the systematic study of the SgSL vocabulary and structure. There will be no test or examination in this level.
- Level Two is a continuation of Level One, expanding the emphasis on developing signing skills and sign communication. There will be test or examination in this level.
- Level Three is a continuation of Level Two. There will be test or examination in this level.
Types of Courses Offered
We offer a range of courses in which you can learn SgSL or develop your SgSL skills further. We also offer a transit course for those who already have knowledge of SEE or/and Pidgin Signed English (PSE).
a) Singapore Sign Language (SgSL) Course
b) SgSL Workshop (Half/Full Day)
c) Work and Professional Programme
Singapore Sign Language (SgSL) Course
Classes and workshops are conducted in the weekday evenings and held at SADeaf premises, and open to everyone above 16 years old only.
| Course Title | Duration | Course Fee | Pre-requisite |
| Level One | 24 hours (once a week) 12 lessons X 2 hours |
Member: $150 Non-member: $180 |
Beginners with no previous knowledge of the sign language. |
| Level Two |
24 hours (once a week) 12 lessons X 2 hours |
Member: $180 Non-member: $200 |
Those who have completed and obtained certificate of attendance in Level One. |
| Level Three | 24 hours (once a week) 12 lessons X 2 hours |
Member: $200 Non-member: $220 |
Those who have completed and passed SgSL Level Two. |
If you wish to have SgSL courses to be conducted at your school or company premises, please
contact us for more information and queries.
SgSL Workshop (Half/Full Day)
This workshop will introduce participants to strategies and techniques for dealing with individuals with hearing loss. Participants will learn the SgSL alphabet, basic sign language for daily communication, and communication strategies. Participants will also learn about deaf culture in order to have a better understanding on how to integrate with individuals with hearing loss.
| Course Title | Duration & Length | Course Fee |
| SgSL Half Day | 4 hours (9am to 1pm or 1pm to 5pm) |
Internal – $480 External – $560 |
| SgSL Full Day | 8 hours (8am to 6pm with one hour lunch break) |
Internal – $960 External – $1,120 |
Key Outcomes
This workshop gives participants an opportunity to :
- acquire knowledge about Deaf culture and the Deaf
- community.develop an awareness of SgSL communication behaviour
- develop basic receptive and expressive skills for everyday communication situations.
- learn basic grammar
The content of this workshop will include
- Deaf Culture and community
- Language and communication strategies
- Visual-gestural communication
- SgSL vocabulary and basic grammar
- Group learning and role play
This workshop will be conducted by a Deaf individual with experience in conducting workshops related to deafness and teaching of SgSL.
There is no formal assessment and each participant will receive a certificate upon completion of the workshop.
Work and Professional Programme
The Professional & Workplace course is specifically designed to fit your communication requirements. We will tailor a curriculum to suit your special professional needs using common vernacular and vocabulary. This will help your employees better understand the communication needs of the Deaf community, or be better prepared to work with Deaf colleagues or clients.
The eight-week course programme aims to provide employers with the appropriate and relevant information about people who are Deaf or Hard-of-hearing and provides an introduction to learning the sign language used by the Deaf community in Singapore.
The content of each session will vary according to the audience and context. Generally, we provide information on the following topics:
- Deaf Culture and Community
- Language and communication strategies
- Working with someone who is Deaf
- Support services for Deaf people
- SgSL vocabulary
- Customised theme based on your professional needs (i.e. healthcare, legal, tourism, etc.)
Number of participants
Minimum of 10 and maximum of 15 per class
Duration
Eight weeks, two hours per week, or it can be tailored to suit your needs.
Key Outcomes
This course gives your employees an opportunity to:
- Create an accessible workplace for people who are deaf or hard-of-hearing
- Improve your customer service quality
- Allow your business to reach new markets
Course Cost
Course costs vary according to the programme which best meets your needs. We can customise the training to fit with your organisational requirements. The classes can be conducted at any time during working hours according to your organisation’s needs, and can be taught at your organisation or at the SADeaf premises. For classes outside SADeaf, travel expenses may be charged.
