Professional Development Opportunities

ASL in GIF "Professional Development Opportunities"


I have a growing list of things I want to do to further my professional development. Here are some of the items on my list:


1. Work with Deaf-Blind.

BC has over a thousand Deaf-Blind individuals, they have different accessibility needs and communication strategies. I want to work with Deaf-Blind individuals and learn how they want to communicate and be supported. Having experience with Deaf-Blind community will help me be better ASL Teacher because Deaf-Blind people are a part of the Deaf community, and as I teach ASL, I want to be sure that I include Deaf-Blind's needs. 

I have applied for a part-time position supporting Deaf-Blind individuals, under CNIB. I want to work with a wide range of Deaf-Blind individuals so that I can get close as possible to understanding the full scope of Deaf-Blind community's needs.


2. Learn How to Teach ASL

Sign Language Institute Canada (SLIC) is offering a 10-month Trainee Program specifically for Teaching ASL.

Lots of ASL Teachers just learn on the job. However, as I have experienced with PIDP having formal education and learning how to teach, has been a tremendous experience in helping me understand how to do my job. 

Now I also want to complete a program where I specifically learn how to teach ASL. I know I would really benefit from SLIC's program. They are only offering spots for 12 people. I am going to apply to be part of the 2023 training, and if I am unsuccessful due to limited registration, I will re-apply for 2024.


3. Attend ASL Conferences

Next year, there is a conference for ASL Teachers in Columbus, Ohio. I may attend in person or online. For the last week, I have been watching a lot of content on Youtube from previous conferences. I already learnt a lot from watching a panel discussion from 2022 San Diego Conference. I absolutely will learn a lot from their workshops, panel discussions and through conversations with other ASL Teachers!




© Roger Desmarais, 2022 

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