Bangalore: Hearing and speech impaired children now benefit from the advantages of learning sign language, of which there are several variants. Only a few are taught in special schools.

While the children, and in some cases those older, learn the use of sign language to communicate, it is mostly a string of words than complete sentences, it has been found.

According to Radhika Poovayya, Director of the Samvaad Institute of Speech and Hearing, Bangalore, hearing loss limits what the child hears, and despite hearing aids, most children have difficulty in all language tasks. They have persistent problems, especially in understanding the grammar of the language they are most likely to be using.

"Sign language is almost telegraphic and children using it tend to omit articles, auxiliaries, prepositions, conjunction of verbs and pronouns. They may have difficulty with using the correct tense too," says Ms. Poovayya. This means they can barely form complete sentences, which is necessary if they have to study beyond the elementary level.

At a recent workshop on "Signed English" conducted by the institute in association with the State Commissionerate for Persons with Disabilities, the fact that many speech and hearing impaired people have limited access to higher education and job prospects was discussed in detail by representatives of special schools.

Participants felt there was an urgent need to look at augmentative and alternative communication methods to improve language skills among the hearing impaired. "Signed English" is now considered an option that has proved effective in the West. It has been developed by Harry Bernstein and his colleagues at Gallaudet University in the U.S. "This encourages use of simultaneous communication using speech and sign language (for those with only hearing impairment) with parents, teachers and among themselves," says Ms. Poovayya.

In "Signed English," sentences are shown in sign language exactly as they are spoken, helping hearing impaired children rapidly acquire vocabulary and grammar and not just a string or words. It has also been found to be a powerful tool to improve reading and writing abilities. "Since speech is used along with sign language, it does not lead to dependence on using signs alone," explained H.S. Venkatagiri from Iowa, U.S., a professor of psychology, who conducted the workshop.

A group of 30 special teachers were invited to participate. They are now part of a core group that will create awareness on "Signed English" in special schools and also help train other teachers and parents of the hearing impaired children.

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