ABSTRACT
The Handbook of Sign Language Pedagogy covers pedagogy and sign language as first (L1), second (L2) and additional (Ln) language. Sign language pedagogy encompasses the instruction, curriculum, and assessment that involve the use of sign languages. It is developed by teachers to use, teach, and assess, and for the learners to learn and be evaluated in using sign language to communicate about scholastic and life-related matters. Very little research has examined the L1 and L2/Ln pedagogy of sign languages. Historically and in common with minority languages, pedagogical practices and materials in sign languages in most of the world were based on practical experiences, informal mentoring, and the influence of available materials, rather than from a body of research and formal training in language pedagogy practices. The studies that focus on pedagogy practices with sign languages are emerging. This leaves many of us wanting an ephemeral “record” of that body of knowledge.
