Phonological Transcription of Sign Language: A Critical Analysis for Academic Literature

Phonology in the context of signed languages, unlike spoken languages, focuses on the study of how signs are structured and used. This article delves into the complex process of phonological transcription of sign languages, particularly within academic literature, highlighting the different systems and their advantages.

The Basic Components of ASL Signs

Sign languages, such as American Sign Language (ASL), have unique components that contribute to the formation of signs. These include:

Handshape: The configuration of the hand used to create a sign. Movement: The way the hand moves to form the sign. Location: The position of the hand during the sign. Orientation: The orientation of the hand and fingers. Nonmanual signs (NMS) or facial expression: Additional signs expressed through facial muscles, head movements, and eyebrow configurations.

Consequences of Parameter Changes

A change in any one of these parameters can significantly alter the meaning of a sign. This is analogous to the addition or deletion of phonemes in spoken languages. For example, a small change in handshape can transform a sign from meaning "dog" to "cat".

Transcription Systems for Signed Languages

To accurately capture and represent the phonological structure of sign languages, various transcription systems have been developed. These systems serve a similar purpose to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) in spoken languages, allowing researchers, linguists, and professionals to precisely document and study signed languages.

The Stokoe System

The Stokoe System was proposed by William C. Stokoe and is one of the earliest and most widely used systems for transcribing ASL. This system uses a straightforward approach, employing hexadecimal numerals and other symbols to represent each of the sign's components:

Handshape: Represented by letters of the alphabet (e.g., 'A' for a flat hand). Movement: Described using directional symbols (e.g., 'NE' for northeast). Location: Indicated by hand locations on the body (e.g., 'face'). Orientation: Denoted by additional symbols (e.g., 'vert' for vertical). NMS: Captured through specific notations (e.g., 'wink' for winking).

This system has its limitations in terms of complexity and precision, as it can be cumbersome and sometimes ambiguous for highly detailed signs.

The Liddell and Johnson Movement-Hold Model

The Liddell and Johnson Movement-Hold Model was developed by Scott K. Liddell and Robert E. Johnson and aims to address some of the limitations of the Stokoe system. This model focuses on the sequential analysis of movement and holds, capturing the intricate nuances of sign formation:

Movement: Described in a detailed step-by-step manner, capturing the timing and sequence of movements. Location: Specified with greater precision, including the exact hand position. Orientation: Detailed with regard to the orientation of the hand and fingers. NMS: Notated in a manner that integrates facial expressions and other nonmanual features.

This system provides a more detailed transcription, making it suitable for in-depth analysis and academic publications.

HamNoSys: Hamburg Sign Language Notation System

HamNoSys, developed at the University of Hamburg, is a comprehensive and standardized system for transcribing signed languages. It is widely used in academic literature and provides a rigorous framework for sign language transcription:

Encoding: A system of numerals and symbols to represent the various components of a sign. Time Representation: Includes a temporal dimension to capture the timing of movements. Facial Expressions: Captures nonmanual signs with dedicated notation.

HamNoSys stands out for its precision and standardization, making it a preferred choice for academic research and linguistic documentation.

Conclusion

Accurate and detailed transcription of sign languages is crucial for academic literature and research in sign language phonology. The Stokoe System, the Liddell and Johnson Movement-Hold Model, and HamNoSys each offer unique advantages, making them appropriate for different research needs. As the study of signed languages continues to evolve, the appropriate choice of transcription system will play a vital role in advancing our understanding of these fascinating linguistic phenomena.

References:

Stokoe, W. C. (1966). A Dictionary of American Sign Language Based on Linguistic Principles. Martha's Vineyard Institute for Deaf Education. Liddell, S. K., Johnson, R. E. (1997). Gestures and Gone: A Deep-Level Analysis for ASL. Gallaudet University Press. Hammer, C. (2019). HamNoSys: Transcription and Description of Sign Language. Sign Language Studies.