Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I find a NZSL class?
Check our class listings. However please note that not all classes are listed on our website. So it is a good idea to check out your local Community Education Centres or your local Deaf Aotearoa branch. If you find a class that is not listed on the website, please let us know by emailing info@nzslta.org.nz!
2. When do classes start?
Classes offered at Community Education Centres, especially night classes, tend to follow School Term dates. It is often wise to sign up for a class before a term starts. Check the Ministry of Education's website for information on School Term dates.
3. How long are NZSL (night) classes usually?
Classes are usually two hours long, once a week, and continue for around 8 or 16 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.
| NZSL Acquisition (hours) |
Level | Community Classes | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0-30 | Beginners 1 | 1A and 1B | 15 |
| 30-60 | Beginners 2 | 1C and 1D | 15 |
| 60-90 | Pre-Intermediate 1 | 2A and 2B | 15 |
| 90-120 | Pre-Intermediate 2 | 2C and 2D | 15 |
| 120-150 | Intermediate 1 | n/a | 15 |
| 150-180 | Intermediate 2 | n/a | 15 |
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 local Deaf Society and Community events
- Set up a NZSL Club in your area
- Go to NZSL Weekend Camp
- Participate in intensive summer school courses, available at AUT University
- Mix with Deaf people in your area
- Volunteer with Deaf related organisations, clubs or groups
- Purchase learning resources
- Encourage yourself to not use voice when communicating with people
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
- Careers 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 the Diploma in Sign Language Interpreting.
8. At my work I encounter many Deaf people, often as clients. Is there anything my workmates and I can do to improve our services for Deaf people?
If your workplace is happy to provide a one-off workshop, it is a great idea to contact us to 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 depends on the availability of the tutor and the location. We can be contacted via info@nzslta.org.nz.
An other option would be to contact Deaf Aotearoa and request a Deaf Awareness workshop. For further details visit Deaf Aotearoa's website.
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) and Auslan signers that since there are a lot of similiarities between BSL/Auslan signs and NZSL signs, one coming from the UK or Australia shouldn't have a problem learning NZSL. But this is not true, BSL/Auslan 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 signing NZSL.