What are the Best Apps for Learning Sign Language?

Are you interested in communicating with the deaf, or those with hearing loss, who may use American Sign Language (ASL)? Are you simply interested in learning sign language? There are a number of accessible apps to choose from. 
 
All you need is an Android smartphone, an iPhone or tablet in order to learn the basics of ASL or to practice the different hand motions. 

Sign language apps available for Android and iPhone   

The ASL app

This app is only available in English. It was produced by deaf people who are bilingual. It focuses on teaching users conversational ASL by utilizing over 1000 videos to make learning ASL fun and simple.  

Baby Sign Language Dictionary

This app is available in English, simplified Chinese and traditional Chinese. It features 40 real-life signing videos, which will help you learn how to sign with your baby. Each individual sign features a detailed video tutorial that is arranged into the following categories: action words, animals, daily routines and feelings. The app also has an interactive video quiz that will help you remember the signs. 

ASL Coach

This app is only available in English. For beginners, this app will instruct you to sign the alphabet and numbers one through nine. If you put it in coach mode, the app allows you to watch and follow the app’s instructions.

ASL Fingerspelling
 
This app helps you practice and develop the skills to read fingerspelling. You can select the length of the word and speed of the fingerspelling, record your answer and it will keep the score. There is an expert level available as your skills develop.  

Hands On ASL 

With this app, 3D models are used to see the signs from every angle. The playful user interface focuses on instructing users how to spell the alphabet with fingerspelling exercises.       


Marlee Signs

This app is only available in English. Marlee Matlin, the Academy Award winning deaf actress, instructs users on the basics of ASL. This includes the signed alphabet and primary vocabulary by way of commonly used expressions in daily life. Each exercise is divided into individual videos to allow users to learn at their own speed. The app keeps a record of lessons that have been completed and features a “slow motion” setting that lets you see the details of each sign.  

My Smart Hands Baby Sign Language Dictionary

This app is only available in English. My Smart Hands is an international baby sign language program that has over 150 instructors located in over 10 countries. The app highlights 45 minutes of instructional video from an ASL instructor and the founder of My Smart Hands, Laura Berg. The video teaches ASL signs and demonstrates how to make, memorize and comprehend them.     

WeSign Basic    

This app is only available in English. It teaches ASL in relation to school (i.e. helping parents ask frequent questions like, “Did you finish your homework?” It has videos with deaf adults asking the questions to deaf children, and the deaf children respond with numerous answers. It features normal and slow playback modes, along with sources on where to learn more about ASL.        

Here are links to some other useful apps for people with hearing loss:

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If you, or a loved one, are experiencing hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation. We offer a variety of name brand hearing aids for a wide range of hearing loss.  

Pure Sound services will only be available by appointment and for essential visits at this time. Essential visits include all appointments that require repairs, re-fittings and new hearing aid fittings. If you are having any problems with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before visiting one of our offices.

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