Ellen Crowe, dean of the School of Education, says there is a high demand for special education teachers, and sign language interpreting is required by several states for certification.

"The interpreting program will strengthen our mission and enhance existing education programs," Crowe said.

Sign language interpreters work in a variety of settings including medical, educational, legal, religious, mental health, rehabilitation and performing arts.

The program will offer courses in deaf culture, American Sign Language, finger spelling and numbers and interpreting as well as practicum and internship opportunities.

According to the 2000 United States Census, 8.6 percent of Illinois residents, or more than 1 million people, suffer from hearing loss.

American Sign Language is more than just finger spelling, although learning the alphabet is a basic part of the language, and it is not just English converted to hand signals. ASL is its own language, and experienced signers can hold in-depth conversations using gestures, facial expressions and posture to convey a wide variety of thoughts and emotions with only a few motions.

"It's a great teaching method and gives them (teachers) another tool to use in the classroom," Crowe said.

Two new full-time teaching positions will be formed at QU for interpreting and American Sign Language courses. Crowe said several incoming and current QU students have expressed an interest in the classes.

"It's needed in this area," she said.

Several states, including Iowa, require at least one course of sign language for special education certification. Illinois does not require sign language classes.

Missouri is one of several states considering recognizing American Sign Language courses as meeting the foreign language requirements in high schools, Crowe said.

David Schachtsiek, QU vice president for academic affairs, said conversations have taken place with officials at John Wood Community College regarding a shared curriculum for the ASL portion of the program.

For more information about QU's interpreting program, contact Crowe at 228-5426 or crowe@quincy.edu.

By Rodney Hart