Connecticut House Bill HB05528

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/11
• Refer: 1/20/11

Caption

An Act Concerning The Classification Of American Sign Language In The Education Curriculum.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05528 would have a substantial impact on the educational curriculum by formalizing the recognition of American Sign Language as a foreign language. This change would likely encourage more schools to offer ASL courses as a foreign language option, thereby expanding opportunities for students to learn ASL. It could also foster a greater appreciation and understanding of deaf culture among students and educators alike.

Summary

House Bill 05528, introduced by Representative Tabsorak, aims to reclassify American Sign Language (ASL) within the education curriculum of the state. Specifically, it seeks to amend section 10-16b of the general statutes to classify ASL as a foreign language instead of a component of language arts. This bill underscores the significance of ASL as a legitimate form of language, recognizing it among other foreign languages offered in educational institutions.

Contention

Despite the positive intentions behind this bill, there may be points of contention related to the prioritization of resources in schools and whether educational institutions are prepared to adequately implement this change. Critics might argue about the funding implications and the need for trained instructors capable of teaching ASL as a foreign language. Supporters counter that the inclusion of ASL in the foreign language category could enhance linguistic diversity and inclusivity in education, aligning with modern understandings of language classification.