ASL (American Sign Language) for diver communication

[gehadoski]

It sounds wonderful to me. Me and my friend are doing the same thing but in a different way, like when we are in a group and we want to split from them and go beyond the limits (going too deep) we start to use different kind of signs. There is a sign for (I'm narked, I'm very narked), thinks like that. Also I like the marine life, sometimes I dive with a specialist in the marine life. I think your idea can help me in this. anyway thanks alot for the link and dive safe

 

[Diver0001]

Since we're on the subject I have another link for you.

http://commtechlab.msu.edu/sites/aslweb/browser.htm

R..

 

[RIDIVER501]

Another good link

http://www.seasigns.com

I am a Seasigns instructor, easy to use, easy to learn

 

[Diver0001]

Another good link

http://www.seasigns.com

I am a Seasigns instructor, easy to use, easy to learn

This is good stuff. Do you think PADI would go for a distinctive specialty on this topic?

R..

 

[RIDIVER501]

I know Suzanne, the company owner is pushing for it. she already has endorsements from PADI of it's usefulness. but wether it become a PADI sanctioned specialty or not I don't know. I have been tossing in sample of its use with all my Scuba classes and there seems to be interest. but to date I haven't taught many students....usually boils down to a money thing..as with everything.

 

[The Kraken]

My wife and I purchased the Sea Signs and are completely thrilled with it. It's brought our diving to a completely new level.

 

[justleesa]

All sites look interesting....
RIDIVER501, I see that there are some signs that we know and use and some that are different than the ones we use (ie. turtle)...how many signs does the class teach, only ones to show the animals or also ones for conversations?

 

[String]

The thing with sign languages is that they are different world wide. American sign is different from British sign which in turn is different from most others.

Therefore learning say ASL would only really be of use inside america. At least the standard diving hand signals are universal and understood world wide.

 

[Nam]

Wow - reading all your messages about diving & sign language. It's interesting as I'm a British deaf divemaster working on a diving and sailing liveaboard in Thailand.
True, there are over 100 different kinds of sign languages. Even though there is an international sign language, unfortunately not many people use it. ASL is different from BSL (British Sign Language) which is also different from say, French sign language etc.

However, that's where SeaSigns come in - sign language developed for all divers worldwide. I'm actually looking to become a SeaSigns instructor trainer so I can teach both hearing & deaf people. I think it's an excellent idea as it would make diving more fun and enjoyable.

Even though I'm deaf, I love teaching everybody to dive and find I have a good understanding of people under the water. Do you know if there are many deaf or hard of hearing divers out there?

Love to hear from you guys soon, x.

P.s. Scubaboard is a brilliant website!

 

[GrierHPharmD]

My wife and I had that same thought: spelling out a word or two would be quicker and easier than fumbling with a slate. Thanks for the link- another way to fill some downtime at work!

Exactly! What a perfect place to learn a new language!!

(Gotta do something with my time on the clock!)