Dutch Sign Language

Facts

  • Language: Dutch Sign Language
  • Alternate names: Sign Language of the Netherlands, SLN, Nederlandse Gebarentaal, NGT
  • Language code: dse
  • Language family: Deaf sign language (SIL classification)
  • Number of speakers: 20,000
  • Vulnerability: Vulnerable
  • Script: HamNoSys Notation.

More information:

    Currently 7 varieties; 6 regional variants (5 associated with the original 5 deaf schools, 1 with the unique home for deaf elderly people), and 1 standardized variety. Regional and national organizations for the deaf. Sign language courses (e.g. parents of deaf children, teachers at deaf schools, etc.). An organization for NGT teachers and 1 for NGT interpreters; official training (college level) for both. A sign center (Nederlands Gebarencentrum) develops NGT teaching materials and studies NGT lexicography. Research on NGT done at University of Amsterdam and Radboud University. Although NGT recommended for official recognition by a special committee, the Dutch government has not recognized the language. Interpreting in work situations as well as in private situations. A manual alphabet used by many deaf for spelling of (place) names and concepts that do not have a sign (yet).

    Dutch Sign Language is spoken in Netherlands, Europe.