Welcome Letter: ASL 201: Michelle Walsh ASL

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American Sign Language 201 / 73133

Instructor: Michelle Walsh

Contact information

Email Address: michelle_walsh@cuesta.edu

Office Location/ Hours: Office Hours through Zoom weekly, Time TBD

Instructor Contact Expectations:

The best and fastest way to contact me is email. I will generally respond to your emails within 24 hours during weekdays only. During busy times of the semester, the response time may increase to 48 hours. On weekends, I will do my best to get back to you ASAP but I cannot guarantee an expeditious response.

Course Environment:

This online course will be using a Web-based Learning Management System Canvas as the method to disseminate information. Canvas provides the framework for the course including Go React Instructional and assessment Videos, PowerPoint presentations, video lectures, student data files, the tools to receive and send course materials, and a grade book. Using the communication tools, you can communicate using e-mail, and you can share materials and ideas with other course participants via the discussion forums and groups.

Class opens / Accessing Canvas:

Prior to the Monday classes start, August 17, 2020, you will receive an email to your my.Cuesta.edu address providing you with a reminder that class will be starting and log in procedures for Canvas, the learning management system (LMS) used to deliver course content. You can access Canvas by logging into MyCuesta, then clicking on the Resources Tab, then clicking on Canvas in the Online Learning Channel, or by typing the Canvas address (https://cuesta.instructure.com/) into your browser address bar. Do not bookmark / favorite the canvas site after your login, or you will get an error message next time you try to log in. You must access the canvas log in directly.

If you are not familiar with logging into canvas, please refer to the Canvas Quick Reference Guide. Once logged into Canvas you should begin with Module 0. Be sure to read all the direction on the course home page.

If you are having difficulty logging into Canvas and need assistance please email technical support at this email address support@cuesta.edu.

Online Learning:

If you have never taken an online class or this is your first experience with Canvas, please be patient with yourself. Online classes are not inherently easier, although they may be much more convenient for many students. You should expect to spend at least as much time, if not more on this course as you would on a course that meets face to face. All lectures are prerecorded so you can watch them on your own schedule. However, you will need to stay within the class schedule so you do not fall behind. There will be a substantial amount of viewing videos, lectures, studying, expressive signing assignments, receptive language assignments, and readings and movies related to Deaf Culture and history. This course is completely online using Canvas; all coursework (discussions, assignments, quizzes, presentations, midterms, finals) is submitted online. There are no required face-to-face meetings. Study sessions with the instructor will be offered five time during the semester synchronously (live through Zoom) for those who would like to attend. Please be prepared to spend 8 - 12 hours per week on coursework for this class.

IS an ONLINE CLASS FOR YOU?

First, go to the Cuesta College Canvas Tutorial (self paced), there are many resources that were designed to help you understand the basis for an online class and the skills necessary for success. (If the tutorials do NOT describe you, then taking this class online is NOT for you and I strongly suggest that you drop the online class and enroll in a traditional classroom section.)

Regular Effective Contact policy:

Regular and Effective Instructor Contact will be met through announcements on Canvas; timely and effective feedback on student assignments; email, and virtual office hours. Please make sure you set your preferences in Canvas to alert you when an Announcement is made on Canvas. Critical and time sensitive information will be posted in the Announcements.

The instructor will be monitoring participation through Canvas and YouTube views. A student who does not log-in to Canvas in the first three days of the semester will be dropped as a “no-show” and the spot will be given to a student waiting to add. If a student does not log-in to Canvas for five consecutive days at any time in the semester without communicating with the instructor, will be dropped for lack of attendance.

Course Description

Introduces a functional-notional approach to the acquisition of American Sign Language (ASL) - a visual/gestural language - through the development of visual receptive and expressive skills required for vocabulary development, grammar, non-manual behaviors, and fingerspelling. Creates awareness of Deaf Culture by reviewing the history of ASL, dynamics of the Deaf community and cultural customs of communication.

My teaching strategies involve Communication Based Instruction. The course primary emphasis is on visual-comprehension, vocabulary acquisition, communicative concepts, and expressive/receptive interactions. Other aspects covered include cultural information, fundamentals of formal grammar, limited reading, and brief translation work.

You are responsible for the all the information provided on Canvas through instructor recorded videos, PowerPoints, YouTube video links and other external links. Feedback for expressive language assignments will be given through Canvas using the Go React External Tool.

Student Learning Outcomes

Communicate using ASL non-manual behaviors of communication - employing body language, mime, and facial expression without the use of voice.
Communicate using basic ASL grammar and vocabulary in dialogue exchanges based on personal information, geography, activities, and schedules.
Communicate in moderately paced fingerspelling skills.
Employ the grammatical non-manual markers of basic questions, elementary classifiers, and pronouns.
Identify and demonstrate cultural Deaf customs.
Communicate an awareness of the history of ASL and selected Deaf profiles.

Text Book and Materials

You must have access to a computerwith an incorporated camera (or an external HD computer camera) and a reliable high-speed internet connection to participate and succeed in this course.
Video and download video capability
Go React External Tool Application is required for purchase through the Cuesta Bookstore at a cost of $32.00 for the semester.

Access to Google Chrome to navigate in CANVAS

There is no Textbook that is required for this course.

Technical Support

Cuesta students are encouraged to direct all technical support inquiries to support@my.cuesta.edu. If you are having issues with Canvas, you should contact the Canvas Support Hotline at (877) 921-7680, or email support@instructure.com.

If you are having difficulty viewing the course or logging in, it may be because you are not using the correct url: https://cuesta.instructure.com/ or you are using your phone or using an unsupported browser.

Your learning environment is best accessed from a desktop or laptop computer, using Chrome. This may solve your problem! Please review the browser requirements and minimum computer specifications.

Accommodations:

This course is designed using an accessible Learning Management System, and course materials have been created with ADA compliance in mind. If you have a disability and might need accommodations in this class such as extended time on exams or other resources. Please contact the instructor as soon as possible so that you can receive appropriate accommodations in a timely manner. You should also contact DSPS (Disabled Student Programs & Services) or at 805-546-3148.

College & Course Policies:

Academic Honesty Policy: [Identify your course specific academic honesty policy]. In addition to my course policy, please note all students attending San Luis Obispo County Community College District at any district site and when representing Cuesta College in any off-campus activity, assume an obligation to conduct themselves in an acceptable manner compatible with the Student Code of conduct. Please review the Cuesta College Student Code of conduct.

Add / Drop Policy: [Identify your course-specific add/drop policy] In addition to my policy, please review the Cuesta policy for drops

Waitlist Policy: [Identify your course-specific waitlist procedures]. In addition to my course specific procedures, please review Cuesta’s waitlist procedure and instructions.

Brief Instructor Educational Background

Studying American Sign Language for over 22 years
Educational Background:

UC Davis (BA: Communications and Psychology);
Los Angeles Pierce College (AA: American Sign Language Interpreting);
Gallaudet University (MA: Deaf Education, Family Centered Early Education)

Work Experience:

Santa Barbara City College ASL Adjunct Instructor (15 years)
Santa Barbara County Education Office, Deaf Infant Specialist (14 years)
Cuesta College, ASL Adjunct Instructor (Fall 2020)

Personal Interests: Exercising, Nature, Ice Hockey, Family

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[{:section_type=>"rich_text", :content=>"American Sign Language 201 / 73133\nInstructor:  Michelle Walsh\n<h2>Contact information</h2>\nEmail Address: michelle_walsh@cuesta.edu\nOffice Location/ Hours: Office Hours through Zoom weekly, Time TBD\nInstructor Contact Expectations:  \nThe best and fastest way to contact me is email.  I will generally respond to your emails within 24 hours during weekdays only.  During busy times of the semester, the response time may increase to 48 hours.  On weekends, I will do my best to get back to you ASAP but I cannot guarantee an expeditious response. \nCourse Environment:\nThis online course will be using a Web-based Learning Management System Canvas as the method to disseminate information. Canvas provides the framework for the course including Go React Instructional and assessment Videos, PowerPoint presentations, video lectures, student data files, the tools to receive and send course materials, and a grade book.  Using the communication tools, you can communicate using e-mail, and you can share materials and ideas with other course participants via the discussion forums and groups.\nClass opens / Accessing Canvas:\nPrior to the Monday classes start, August 17, 2020, you will receive an email to your my.Cuesta.edu address providing you with a reminder that class will be starting and log in procedures for Canvas, the learning management system (LMS) used to deliver course content. You can access Canvas by logging into MyCuesta, then clicking on the Resources Tab, then clicking on Canvas in the Online Learning Channel, or by typing the Canvas address (<a href=\"https://cuesta.instructure.com/\">https://cuesta.instructure.com/</a>) into your browser address bar. Do not bookmark / favorite the canvas site after your login, or you will get an error message next time you try to log in. You must access the canvas log in directly.\nIf you are not familiar with logging into canvas, please refer to the <a href=\"https://www.cuesta.edu/academics/documents/distance-docs/Canvas_Quick_Reference_Students.pdf\">Canvas Quick Reference Guide.</a> Once logged into Canvas you should begin with Module 0.  Be sure to read all the direction on the course home page.  \nIf you are having difficulty logging into Canvas and need assistance please email technical support at this email address <a href=\"mailto:support@cuesta.edu\">support@cuesta.edu</a>.   \n \nOnline Learning:  \nIf you have never taken an online class or this is your first experience with Canvas, please be patient with yourself. Online classes are not inherently easier, although they may be much more convenient for many students. You should expect to spend at least as much time, if not more on this course as you would on a course that meets face to face. All lectures are prerecorded so you can watch them on your own schedule.  However, you will need to stay within the class schedule so you do not fall behind.  There will be a substantial amount of viewing videos, lectures, studying, expressive signing assignments, receptive language assignments, and readings and movies related to Deaf Culture and history. This course is completely online using Canvas; all coursework (discussions, assignments, quizzes, presentations, midterms, finals) is submitted online. There are no required face-to-face meetings.  Study sessions with the instructor will be offered five time during the semester synchronously (live through Zoom) for those who would like to attend.   Please be prepared to spend 8 - 12 hours per week on coursework for this class.\nIS an ONLINE CLASS FOR YOU?  \n<ul>\n<li>First, go to the <a href=\"https://www.cuesta.edu/academics/distance/survey.html\">Cuesta College Canvas Tutorial (self paced)</a>,  there are many resources that were designed to help you understand the basis for an online class and the skills necessary for success. (If the tutorials do NOT describe you, then taking this class online is NOT for you and I strongly suggest that you drop the online class and enroll in a traditional classroom section.)</li>\n</ul>\n<h2>Regular Effective Contact policy:</h2>\nRegular and Effective Instructor Contact will be met through announcements on Canvas; timely and effective feedback on student assignments; email, and virtual office hours.  Please make sure you set your preferences in Canvas to alert you when an Announcement is made on Canvas.  Critical and time sensitive information will be posted in the Announcements. \nThe instructor will be monitoring participation through Canvas and YouTube views.  A student who does not log-in to Canvas in the first three days of the semester will be dropped as a “no-show” and the spot will be given to a student waiting to add.   If a student does not log-in to Canvas for five consecutive days at any time in the semester without communicating with the instructor, will be dropped for lack of attendance.  \n<h2>Course Description</h2>\nIntroduces a functional-notional approach to the acquisition of American Sign Language (ASL) - a visual/gestural language - through the development of visual receptive and expressive skills required for vocabulary development, grammar, non-manual behaviors, and fingerspelling. Creates awareness of Deaf Culture by reviewing the history of ASL, dynamics of the Deaf community and cultural customs of communication.\n \nMy teaching strategies involve Communication Based Instruction. The course primary emphasis is on visual-comprehension, vocabulary acquisition, communicative concepts, and expressive/receptive interactions.  Other aspects covered include cultural information, fundamentals of formal grammar, limited reading, and brief translation work.\nYou are responsible for the all the information provided on Canvas through instructor recorded videos, PowerPoints, YouTube video links and other external links.  Feedback for expressive language assignments will be given through Canvas using the Go React External Tool.\n<h2>Student Learning Outcomes</h2>\n<ol>\n<li>Communicate using ASL non-manual behaviors of communication - employing body language, mime, and facial expression without the use of voice. </li>\n<li>Communicate using basic ASL grammar and vocabulary in dialogue exchanges based on personal information, geography, activities, and schedules. </li>\n<li>Communicate in moderately paced fingerspelling skills. </li>\n<li>Employ the grammatical non-manual markers of basic questions, elementary classifiers, and pronouns. </li>\n<li>Identify and demonstrate cultural Deaf customs. </li>\n<li>Communicate an awareness of the history of ASL and selected Deaf profiles. </li>\n</ol>\n<h2>Text Book and Materials</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>You must have access to a computerwith an incorporated camera (or an external HD computer camera) and a reliable high-speed internet connection to participate and succeed in this course.</li>\n<li>Video and download video capability</li>\n<li>Go React External Tool Application is required for purchase through the Cuesta Bookstore at a cost of $32.00 for the semester.</li>\n</ul>\n \n<ul>\n<li>Access to Google Chrome to navigate in CANVAS</li>\n</ul>\n \n<ul>\n<li>There is no Textbook that is required for this course.</li>\n</ul>\n \n<h2>Technical Support</h2>\nCuesta students are encouraged to direct all technical support inquiries to  <a href=\"mailto:support@my.cuesta.edu\">support@my.cuesta.edu</a>. If you are having issues with Canvas, you should contact the Canvas Support Hotline at (877) 921-7680, or email <a href=\"mailto:support@instructure.com\">support@instructure.com</a>.\nIf you are having difficulty viewing the course or logging in, it may be because you are not using the correct url: https://cuesta.instructure.com/ or you are using your phone or using an unsupported browser.  \n \nYour learning environment is best accessed from a desktop or laptop computer, using Chrome.  This may solve your problem!  Please review the <a href=\"https://www.cuesta.edu/academics/distance/faqs_technical.html\">browser requirements and minimum computer specifications</a>.\n \n<h2>Accommodations:</h2>\nThis course is designed using an accessible Learning Management System, and course materials have been created with ADA compliance in mind. If you have a disability and might need accommodations in this class such as extended time on exams or other resources. Please contact the instructor as soon as possible so that you can receive appropriate accommodations in a timely manner. You should also contact <a href=\"http://www.cuesta.edu/student/studentservices/dsps/index.html\">DSPS (Disabled Student Programs &amp; Services)</a> or at 805-546-3148.\n<h2>College &amp; Course Policies:</h2>\nAcademic Honesty Policy: [Identify your course specific academic honesty policy]. In addition to my course policy, please note all students attending San Luis Obispo County Community College District at any district site and when representing Cuesta College in any off-campus activity, assume an obligation to conduct themselves in an acceptable manner compatible with the Student Code of conduct. Please review the <a href=\"https://www.cuesta.edu/about/documents/vpss-docs/StudentConducttrifold-brochure_2017.pdf\">Cuesta College Student Code of conduct</a>.\nAdd / Drop Policy: [Identify your course-specific add/drop policy] In addition to my policy, please review the Cuesta policy for drops\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.cuesta.edu/student/studentservices/admrreg/arpolicies/addcourse.html\">Add Policy</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.cuesta.edu/student/studentservices/admrreg/arpolicies/dropcourse.html\">Drop Policy</a></li>\n</ul>\n \nWaitlist Policy: [Identify your course-specific waitlist procedures]. In addition to my course specific procedures, please review <a href=\"http://www.cuesta.edu/student/studentservices/admrreg/arpolicies/Waitlist.html\">Cuesta’s waitlist procedure and instructions</a>.\nBrief Instructor Educational Background\n<ul>\n<li>Studying American Sign Language for over 22 years</li>\n<li>Educational Background: </li>\n</ul>\n<ul>\n<ul>\n<li>UC Davis (BA: Communications and Psychology);</li>\n<li>Los Angeles Pierce College (AA: American Sign Language Interpreting);</li>\n<li>Gallaudet University (MA: Deaf Education, Family Centered Early Education)</li>\n</ul>\n</ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Work Experience:</li>\n</ul>\n<ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Santa Barbara City College ASL Adjunct Instructor (15 years)</li>\n<li>Santa Barbara County Education Office, Deaf Infant Specialist (14 years)</li>\n<li>Cuesta College, ASL Adjunct Instructor (Fall 2020)</li>\n</ul>\n</ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Personal Interests: Exercising, Nature, Ice Hockey, Family</li>\n</ul>\n \n \n "}]