Frequently Asked Questions on Learning NZSL
1. How do I find a NZSL class?
Check our class listings - just click on the location map, and it will connect you to a list of classes available. Please however note that not all classes are listed on the website so it is always worth checking out your local Community Education Centres, or your local Deaf Association branch to see if there are any classes being offered. If you find a class that is not listed on the website, please let us know! (info@nzslta.org.nz)
2. When do classes start?
Classes offered at Community Education Centres, especially night classes, tend to start in accordance with the Intermediate School Term dates. It is often wise to sign up for a class before a term starts. For term dates in 2006:
Term 1
Monday, 20 Feb
Thursday, 23 Feb
Term 2
Monday, 8 May
Thursday, 11 May
Term 3
Monday, 25 July
Thursday, 28 July
Term 4
Monday, 16 Oct
Thursday, 19 Oct
3. How long are NZSL (night) classes usually?
Classes are usually two hours long, once a week, and continue for around 7-8 weeks or 15 weeks depending on the NZSL teacher or tutor, location, and availability.
4. How long do I need to take classes till I pick up NZSL?
The information presented in the table below is based on 2 hours per week learning NZSL in class.
Hours of NZSL | Level | Community | ||
30-60 | 1 | Beginners 2 (15 wks) | 1c, 1d (15 wks) | |
60-90 | 2 | Pre-Intermediate 1 (15 wks) | 2a, 2b (15 wks) | |
90-120 | 2 | Pre-Intermediate 2 (15 wks) | 2c, 2d (15 wks) | |
120-150 | 3 | Intermediate 1 (15 wks) | ||
150-180 | 3 | Intermediate 2 (15 wks) |
5. What's the best way to learn NZSL fast?
Besides learning NZSL in a class, there are other ways to improve your NZSL skills:
- Attend Deaf Community events
- Set up a NZSL Club in your area
- Go to NZSL Silent Weekend Camp
- Participate in intensive summer school course, available at AUT
- Mix with Deaf people in your area
- Volunteer with Deaf related organisations, clubs or groups
- Purchase learning resources
- Use no voice in class
6. What are the possible job opportunities?
If you are interested in working with Deaf people, your NZSL skills will come in handy. Some possible job opportunities include:
- NZSL Interpreter
- Teacher of the Deaf
- Teacher Aide
- Social Worker
- Administration / management position with Deaf organisations
- Caregiver
7. I'm taking NZSL night classes but I'd like to learn more...
If your interests in NZSL goes beyond night classes, you can study NZSL at:
- Victoria University of Wellington provides selective papers in NZSL.
- Auckland University of Technology has a "Certificate in New Zealand Sign Language and Deaf Studies," which can be studied full or part time. This course is a stepping-stone to 'Diploma in Sign Language Interpreting.'
8. At my work I encounter many Deaf people, often as clients, and is there anything my workmates and I can do to improve our services for Deaf people?
If your workplace is happy to provide "professional development" or one-off workshop, it is a great idea to contact the National Administrator and see if a NZSL tutor can be hired to come in and teach basic signs to you and your workmates. Longer sessions can be arranged but this solely depends on the availability of the tutor and the location.
An other option would be to contact Deaf Association of NZ and request for a "Deaf Awareness" training. For further details, you may email: deafawareness@deaf.co.nz.
9. I know some sign language from outside of New Zealand. Does this mean I can pick up NZSL easy?
It really depends on the individual. Some people, fluent in their own native sign language, can pick up NZSL fast but there is often an average of 2-3 months of 'transition.' Once again this depends on how often one socialises with Deaf people here in NZSL.
There is often a misconception among British Sign Language (BSL) signers that since there are a lot of similiarities between BSL signs and NZSL signs, one coming from the UK shouldn't have a problem learning NZSL. But this is not true, BSL signers need to keep in mind that NZSL is a separate, official language, and there should be some time given to get used to NZSL signs, slangs, and their way of speaking NZSL.
