Technology is a key tool for inclusion and learning, And its role in teaching alternative languages, such as sign language, is increasingly relevant. Learning sign language facilitates communication with deaf or hard-of-hearing people and promotes empathy, equal opportunities, and accessibility in all areas.
Mobile apps for learning sign language They have revolutionized the way we access this visual and gestural language. Whether you need to communicate for personal or professional reasons, or you're simply curious, there are multiple resources to suit all levels, needs, and ages.
Why learn sign language with apps?
The main advantages of using apps to learn sign language include the ability to study at your own pace, access interactive lessons, practice with audiovisual materials, and enjoy always-updated content. In addition, many of these apps are Returns or low cost, which democratizes access to learning.
Some tools offer practical exercises, visual dictionaries, games, challenges, and personalized classes with tutors, and are designed for both adults and children. This allows for everything from finger writing to advanced vocabulary or everyday expressions for specific situations, such as the workplace or school environment.
The best apps for learning sign language
We present the most comprehensive apps, organized so you can choose the one that best suits your needs, and also including those featured in the best lists of specialized portals, associations, and educational platforms:
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Kitsord
Kitsord is considered by many users and experts as One of the most complete apps for learning Spanish sign languageIt offers interactive lessons with explanatory videos and photos, glossaries, self-assessment tests, and games to motivate learning in a fun way. It allows you to advance progressively through topics and levels, and is perfect for both beginners and those looking to review or expand their vocabulary.
Other advantages: It is totally free, includes reminders to practice every day and works even without an internet connection. Excellent option for learning anytime, anywhere, especially on short trips.
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DILSE (Dictionary of Spanish Sign Language)
DILSE is the most recognized bilingual dictionary of Spanish sign languageDeveloped by the CNSE Foundation and organizations such as ONCE and the Vodafone Foundation, it is an essential resource for both students and professionals. It contains more than 5.500 signs in photos and videos illustrated by deaf professionals.
Highlighted Features: You can mark favorites, save the history of symbols you've looked up, and easily share content. It's free to download and use, and it displays no ads. Plus, it has daily suggestions to help you learn a new word every day.
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Prely
Preply is an educational platform that connects students and private tutors of multiple languages, including sign language. The big difference is that you can 100% personalize classes based on your needs: from learning ASL (American Sign Language), taking refresher classes if you are an interpreter, to preparing for specific communication situations.
Preply has a powerful search engine to find the best tutor based on experience, methodology, price, or availability. Lessons are taught via video call, with real-time feedback and reinforcement materials. It's ideal for those looking for a professional and flexible approach.
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ASL Pocket Sign
Pocket Sign is an application focused on the independent learning of American Sign Language (ASL) With short lessons, interactive exercises, and gamification, introduce new vocabulary and expressions before challenging yourself with multiple-choice questions, picture matching, and fill-in-the-blank activities.
Gamification and motivation: Collect gems by completing challenges to unlock helpers, extra lives, and eliminate incorrect choices. Plus, it includes a visual dictionary with more than 10.000 videos.
Other digital resources and websites of interest for learning sign language
In addition to mobile apps, there are platforms and websites that offer Free resources, online dictionaries and specialized courses in sign languageThey are a perfect complement to advance or deepen learning:
- sematoes: Online dictionary of Spanish, Catalan, French, and international sign languages. Available in www.sematos.euIdeal for looking up vocabulary in different variants.
- Spread The Sign: A global collaborative platform with over 300.000 words and phrases in sign languages ​​from different countries. Includes videos and descriptions. Access here.
- PikaraMagazine Glossary: A video glossary of current and social terms, developed by active members of the deaf community. Available at on the web.
- Signa Uni: Created by the University of Valencia, It is the pioneering app for learning sign language in the university environment, with 540 videos of categorized basic words and expressions. It's free and easy to use, designed for staff and students to communicate with people with hearing impairments.
Educational platforms and online sign language courses
Currently there are online training platforms Specialized sign language schools that stand out for their active approach, the quality of their materials, and personalized attention. Some of the most recommended by associations, universities, and social organizations include:
- Signocampus (CNSE Foundation): Spain's leading platform for online sign language courses. The method combines theory and practice on interactive screens, communicative tasks with private feedback, and materials created entirely by deaf professionals, following the standards of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages ​​(CEFR). It highlights the Video privacy and learning personalization by levels (A1, A2, B1, etc.). Perfect for those looking to progress officially or need accreditation.
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Formations of associations such as Funcasor: Recommended option for those who prefer the traditional route or want to combine the use of apps and digital resources with in-person or online classes led by native interpreters and teachers. Numerous associations for deaf people offer sign language courses tailored to all levels and objectives.
consultation Funcasor training.
Recommendations for choosing the best sign language app according to your profile
Given the variety of applications and resources, it is important to take into account some factors to select the app that best suits your goals:
- If you're a complete beginner, choose apps with guided lessons and games (like Kitsord, ASL Kids, or IncluSeñas), or easy-to-navigate visual dictionaries (DILSE, ASL Dictionary).
- For those looking for real-world speaking practice and personalized correction, platforms like Preply or Signocampus are ideal.
- If you need specialized vocabulary for a specific situation (work, university, emergencies), select apps or thematic dictionaries (for example, Signa Uni).
- If you're traveling or interested in linguistic diversity, Spread The Sign, Sematos, or IncluSeñas will help you learn the basics of different sign languages.
Keys to sign language and its importance in society
In Spain, more than 70.000 people use sign language as an essential tool for communication. Furthermore, there are more than 300 sign languages ​​recognized worldwide, each with its own variants and grammar. Therefore, it's essential to choose resources that adapt to the variety you need to learn.
El bilingualism with sign language It promotes the personal and professional development of deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals and helps eliminate social, educational, and employment barriers. The use and learning of sign language improves integration, sensitivity, and diversity, both in the classroom and in the professional or family environment.
Tips for getting the most out of learning with apps and digital resources
- Establish routines of daily practice, even if you only use the app for 10 minutes each day.
- Take advantage of the features of reminders, rewards and level advancement typical of gamified apps.
- Vary the sources: Combine apps, online dictionaries, videos, forums, and if you can, participate in in-person groups or meetups to practice real conversation.
- Use audiovisual resources (such as movies, newscasts, or YouTube channels in sign language) to improve understanding.
- Contact associations or professionals If you need to resolve doubts, delve deeper into grammar or certify your knowledge.
Learning sign language, supported by apps and digital platforms, is more accessible and flexible than ever. It not only allows you to connect with one of the richest and most expressive visual languages ​​in the world, but also opens the door to empathy, inclusion, and the elimination of communication barriers.