Colombian Sign Language
PrintA language of Colombia
ISO 639-3
Population
50,000 deaf in Bogotá in 1992.
Language Status
5 (Developing).
Classification
Dialects
Some signs similar to those in sign languages of El Salvador, Spain, and the United States.
Language Use
Some schools use sign language in the classroom. Interpreters provided at important public events, and for college students. Many sign language classes for hearing people. Little research. Not clear how many deaf persons know a sign language. Used by half of school-age children.
Language Development
At least 4 deaf schools (begun 1924); 2 in Bogotá and 2 in Medellín; 3 other deaf institutions. Committee on national sign language, and an organization for sign language teachers. TV. Dictionary. Grammar. Bible portions: 2006.
Language Resources
Writing
SignFont Notation. SignWriting. Stokoe Notation.
Began 1929. Manual alphabet for spelling.