MULTIMODAL ANALYSIS OF CULTURAL ASSUMPTIONS IN AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE PRINT AND ONLINE CURRICULA

Abstract

Drawing from Kress’s social semiotic theory, multimodal analysis, and visual analysis, I analyzed the design, modes, communication, transactions (or lack of), and the sign-maker’s goal within two widely-used ASL curriculums: Master ASL! (print format) and True+Way ASL (online format). I analyzed screenshots of web pages and photos of textbook pages in Unit 1. The first unit of the curriculums was chosen as they are the introductory units and roughly cover the same vocabulary and Deaf cultural components. Images gathered include screenshots of videos, text, and images within the curriculum/book. The analysis identified points of meaning making based on the social and historical representation of language and culture in which communication occurs through various modes. I created an ASL introductory unit designed with e-book creation software that reflects the findings from the comparison. This sample curriculum is used to illustrate how resources on-hand can influence design choices and meaning-making materials.