John Bonvillian, Professor Emeritus, Department of Psychology

Gregory Propp, American Sign Language Program

Description: An examination of over 100 signed languages to find and compile the most iconic and highly transparent signs was initially undertaken to help individuals with conditions limiting their ability to communicate (stroke, autism, Down syndrome, etc.).  Further research also supports the use of these iconic signs in foreign language teaching.  Prof. Bonvillian will discuss the development of this Simplified Sign System and its potential for use in foreign language vocabulary acquisition.