NC SIGN 005 - Intermediate Conversational ASL for Personal and Professional Development - Patty Ivankovic

Introduction

Hello!

I am excited to teach this non-credit course focusing on Conversational American Sign Language!

This course is designed for students who have completed a minimum of SIGN 101 and want to build practical, real-world signing skills in an interactive and supportive environment.  The class will be structured to meet the needs of students who are at various levels (SIGN 102 - SIGN 104) in developing their ASL proficiency.  Our focus will be on developing conversational fluency, increasing receptive and expressive skills, and gaining confidence in communicating using ASL.

With over 35 years in Deaf Education and 14 years teaching ASL, Deaf Culture, and Deaf Education at College of the Canyons, I bring both teaching experience and personal experience as a Deaf person to the classroom.  My goal is to create a space where students feel comfortable taking risks, practicing consistently, and growing in their ability to communicate in ASL.

Conversational ASL is hands-on. You will be signing from the very first class. The more you participate, the more you will gain. If you are ready to immerse yourself in a voice-off, visually rich learning experience, this course will be both rewarding and empowering.

I look forward to having you join this course.

Patty

Course Description

This course focuses on the development of expressive and receptive skills in American Sign Language (ASL) for college and career readiness. Emphasis is placed on expanding conversational proficiency, including planning experiences, asking and responding to questions, and developing narrative skills.

Possible topics include describing restaurants and dining experiences, planning events and trips, seeking and giving advice, discussing current events and news, and storytelling, including children’s stories.

What to Expect in this Course

Students are required to attend at least one Deaf Event during the semester.

Types of Assessments

Assessment of skill development will be done through participation in dialogues and interactive assignments in ASL.

Textbook Information

No textbook is needed for this course.

I recommend having a 1" 3-ring binder for handouts that will be distributed during class.

Other Relevant Course Information

This is a non-credit (Pass/No Pass) course. Students may repeat the course to further develop their skills if they wish. Upon successful completion, students are eligible to enroll in NC SIGN 006 for more advanced topics.

Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

• CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
• CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 02/16/2026 Sub#: 2031 Sub ID: 208023