ASL Observation Report

Through the experience of viewing the ASL Panel, I absorbed information through observing and communicating with my neighbors. When first arriving at Boylston Hall, I apprehensively approached the doors. However, I first encountered someone from an ASL class. We greeted each other though ASL. Then, she introduced me to her accompanying peers via signs. I also observed other individuals signing in the atrium. I wanted to sign a greeting to them as well; however, they were engaged in a deep conversation. These former events placed me in the mindset to attempt to primarily sign and perceive signs. As the panel commenced and proceeded, I felt increasingly connected to a group of hearing and Deaf individuals that contains the knowledge to promote societal change.
Through my ASL interactions, I realized that I need to work on making eye contact with others and recognizing

At one point, I could not tell if an individual was signing to me or the person next to me to say hello. I also need to increase my limited vocabulary. I could confidently introduce myself to someone who sat next to me. Beyond that, I could comprehend some signs, but I lacked the vocabulary to accurately and coherently respond. At the next event, hopefully I will interact through short conversations. Because I was sitting towards the upper middle of the audience, I was not able to interact with individuals on the panel before or during the discussions. However, the panel answered several questions that were on my mind. The individuals on the panel relayed emotional and eye-opening stories. Such conversations revealed aspects of the Deaf community. I noticed differences in signing styles between the individuals on the panel. Each person had a specific style when using the same words. Even though the event had interpreters, my focus was on the individuals