Title:
UNLOCKING THE POWER OF SIGN LANGUAGE: MASTERING ALPHABETS AND MULTIMODAL COMPONENTS

Authors:
Enow Parris Cecilia Bechem, Cameroon

Abstract:
Teaching sign language to beginners (hearing students) in the department of linguistics is a daunting task which requires more understanding of the various levels of representation from 10 gestures to motion characterized by four multimodal components. This study highlights the connection existing between signs and multimodal components: handshape, signing area, hand movement and palm position as proposed by Stokoe. These components act independently to convey meaning. Hence, any incorrect gesture alters the semantic content of the word or sentence. We place this study in the framework of a theoretical and practical model that posits 15 illustrative intent “tell and show” by the signer as the organising principle of sign language. A descriptive survey research was employed with the help of observation as instrument for data collection. Motion captured data was collected through 30 minutes of observation as the signer is perceived performing signs. Data evaluation and analysis is done on the quality of the gestures performed. Findings indicate that: 1. There are 26 alphabets in sign language which stands as the 20 base for students to learn and master for effective teaching and learning of sign language. 2. These alphabets have fundamental multimodal components that make up the sounds which students must learn. 3. There are three aspects students must possess to become skilled signers. It was recommended that the University of Bamenda intensifies monitoring and supervision to help students acquire proficient signing skills while lobbying for donor funding to provide resources 25 necessary to teach the course.