Virtual Training
April 15, 2026
6-8PM CDT
"Improving Visual-Gestural Communication (VGC)"
Presenter: MJ Bienvenu
Important Information:
-
Registration is FREE for Louisiana residents
-
Registration is $20 for Out-of-State registrants
-
No refunds after April 5, 2026
-
Deadline to register is April 14, 2026 at 11:59pm CDT
-
Training will be presented in ASL
-
Interpreters will NOT be provided
-
Requests for special accommodations must be received by April 1, 2026
-
This training is hosted by LRID with some funding from Louisiana Commission for the Deaf
-
.2 PS RID CEUS have been applied for
Training Description:
Many second language users of ASL struggle with describing things and objects that do not have conventional signs. Understanding VGC will improve description skills. Descriptions are not limited to objects but actions as well. There is a belief that classifiers often began as gestures before becoming conventionalized. Incorporating both VGC and classifiers is essential to make a more dynamic ASL text.
Educational Objectives:
-
Define visual-gestural communication
-
Recognize and incorporate gestures in basic communication
-
Identify the difference between gestures and conventionalized signs
-
Incorporate VGC and classifiers to make an ASL text more visual
-
Self-assess the increased use of gestures and classifiers post workshop
Presenter's biography:
MJ Bienvenu is a pioneering Deaf ASL scholar, educator, and activist, born in Baton Rouge, LA, who grew up in a Deaf family and graduated from Gallaudet College with a BA in English, and a MA in Linguistics and Union Institute and University with degrees in Linguistics and Interdisciplinary Studies. She was a co-founder of The Bicultural Center to foster dialogue between Deaf and interpreting communities from 1987 to 1994. She then worked as professor in the Department of ASL and Deaf Studies at Gallaudet University, before retiring. She is known for her work in ASL instruction, Deaf culture, bilingualism, LGBTQIA, -isms and empowerment.
LRID is an RID-approved CMP Sponsor for continuing education activities. This program is offered for 0.2 PS at the some content knowledge level.
The Association does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of age, color, creed, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, gender identity, hearing status, marital status, military status, national origin, race, religion, sex or sexual orientation, in any of its activities or operations.
Activities include, but not limited to matters of membership, representing the Association, conference/professional development attendance, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services.
This includes any form of verbal or non-verbal communication that may take place before, during or after a meeting or professional development activity, or through any electronic means.
Target audience: ASL/English
interpreters; students; both Deaf and
non-Deaf
