Introduction to Tactual Sign Language
Background of Tactual Sign Language (TSL)
People who are deafblind have various degree of impairment on both vision and hearing. There are various ways to communicate like Braille, assistive communicative devices and Tactual Sign Language, for which the receiver placing their hands over the hands of the signer, so that they can feel the signs being used.
Development of TSL in Hong Kong
With the help of Father Cyril Axelrod in 1993, our Society developed the Chinese Tactual Sign Language, similar to sign language used by local deaf community.
Acknowledged to the Hong Kong Community Chest, the first deafblind rehabilitation programme was established in 1995. This programme targeted at those visually and hearing impaired whose aged 16 or above. Training courses covers orientation and mobility skills, daily living skills, home management skills and communication method. The programme aims to provide independent living skills training to the deafblind and to strengthen their communication ability. In 1999, the Society collaborated with Ebenezer New Hope School (formerly known as Ebenezer Training Centre) and the Caritas Jockey Club Lok Yan School conducted a pilot project on using tactual sign language with students who are deafblind and deafblind with multiple disabilities. This precious experience was compiled into Deafblind Training Manual and Chinese Tactual Sign Language Vocabulary CD-ROM as a useful reference to the teachers, professionals working with the deafblind and the carers. Without a recognised communication means, the person who is deafblind may be misunderstood or misinterpreted. But patience, concern and the help of remaining senses can overcome the barriers.
| Introduction of TSL (Chinese Version) |
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Deafblind Training Manual
(Traditional Chinese or Simplified Chinese print) |
$90 |
Tactual Sign Language Vocabulary CD- ROM
(in Cantonese or Mandarin) |
$30 |
| 10 % discounts for members. Available in Deafblind Resource Centre. |
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