Chinese Sign Language and Culture

Discover the language, culture, and community of Chinese Sign Language

Millions of people use Chinese Sign Language (CSL) every day to communicate, connect, and express themselves. On this engaging course from Shanghai International Studies University (SISU), you’ll get an essential introduction to CSL while exploring the culture and history of the Chinese Deaf community.

Your journey begins with the basics of CSL vocabulary, grammar, and conversational expressions. Through interactive exercises and cultural insights, you’ll then build foundational signing skills and grow your confidence in communication.

Learn how signs are formed and explore the history of CSL

As you progress, you’ll uncover the rich linguistic roots of CSL, learning how signs are formed and how the language has evolved.

Along the way, you’ll discover what these patterns reveal about Chinese culture and the unique ways the Deaf community expresses identity and connection.

Connect language learning with cultural understanding

You’ll also reflect on the relationship between the Deaf and hearing communities in China. You’ll gain a new perspective on how CSL supports social connection and inclusivity, as well as how communication norms are shaped by culture.

To enhance your learning, you’ll work through real-life examples and hear direct perspectives from the Deaf community.

Examine CSL in a global context

Discover how cross-cultural communication and interaction with other sign languages have influenced CSL. You’ll gain a comparative perspective and recognise the global role of sign languages in promoting linguistic and cultural diversity.

By the end of this course, you’ll not only be able to use basic CSL but you’ll walk away with a deep understanding of the values, challenges, and contributions of China’s Deaf community.

This course is for English-speaking learners interested in Chinese Sign Language, Deaf culture in China, or cross-cultural communication. No prior experience is required.

This course is for English-speaking learners interested in Chinese Sign Language, Deaf culture in China, or cross-cultural communication. No prior experience is required.

• Explore the historical development of Chinese Sign Language and its relationship with global historical contexts.
• Engage with the Chinese Deaf community by understanding how Chinese Sign Language reflects and shapes daily social interactions.
• Practice basic conversations in Chinese Sign Language across everyday topics, with a focus on essential vocabulary and grammar.
• Describe the structure and origin of Chinese Sign Language signs through introductory insights into etymology and word formation.
• Compare the effects of cross-cultural communication on the evolution and diversification of Chinese Sign Language.