Penn State DuBois Continuing and Community Education is encouraging students in their new courses to “Listen With Your Eyes.”

Basic knowledge of American Sign Language is being recognized as a valuable tool for those working as school teachers, social workers, or who might work with deaf, hearing-impaired, or autistic students or customers.

In the spring, in addition to the 10-week introductory class, Penn State DuBois will also offer a six-week intermediate class for those who would like to increase their American Sign Language skills. Marla Jo Ball is the instructor for both courses. Both classes are Act 48 approved for continuing education credits.

The introductory class will meet Thursdays from 5:30 to 7 p.m., starting on January 31. The class will teach finger spelling, conversational phrases and a variety of common words. Registration is $160, with discounts for current Penn State students and employees.

The more advanced class will meet Tuesdays from 5:30 to 7 p.m., starting February 12. This class is open to those with a basic knowledge of American Sign Language. Registration for this class is $100, with similar discounts for Penn State students and employees.

Students wishing to register for either class can go to the Penn State DuBois website at: https://dubois.psu.edu/listen-your-eyes-introduction-american-sign-language.