Differences between Auslan and Key Word Sign
Many people come up to us and ask if we do Auslan or Sign Language. We strive to be explicit in our communication that our organisation uses Key Word Sign, not Auslan or Sign Language. Our aim with Key Word Sign is always to be respectful of the Deaf Community and acknowledge that we kindly borrow signs from the language, to be used as a communication support for children.
Key Word Sign (KWS) borrows signs from Australian Sign Language (Auslan), though it’s important to note that KWS is distinct from Auslan and entails significant differences.
Primary Differences
Outlined below are several differences between Auslan and Children’s Key Word Sign (CKWS). For families with Deaf or Hard of Hearing children, it’s advisable to seek guidance and support from organisations such as Deaf Children Australia, DeafNav, or Aussie Deaf Kids.
Understanding these differences enables families and professionals to make informed decisions about the most suitable communication strategies for children with diverse needs.
| Auslan | Children’s Key Word Sign |
|---|---|
| Language | Communication Tool |
| Does not follow spoken language (own grammar / structure) | Follows structure of spoken language |
| Respectful to have voice off | Essential to speak when signing to encourage spoken language |
| Deaf Community and Culture | No community or culture associated with KWS |
| Mainly used by Deaf , Hard of Hearing and children of Deaf adults | For all children that are pre-speaking or have communication difficulties |
The primary differences between Auslan and Key Word Sign (KWS) include:
Recognition and Usage
Auslan is a fully developed natural language used by the Deaf community in Australia. It possesses its own grammar, syntax, and vocabulary, making it a complete and independent system of communication.
In contrast, Key Word Sign (KWS) is an Augmentative and Alternative Communication tool designed to assist individuals with communication difficulties. Unlike Auslan, KWS simplifies communication by focusing on key words rather than providing a comprehensive language system.
Language Structure
Auslan operates as a visual language, with its own syntax and grammar differing from spoken language. This allows for flexibility in word order and relies heavily on visual cues.
Key Word Sign, however, mirrors the structure of spoken language. It involves signing key words from sentences while maintaining the order and structure of the spoken language. This approach facilitates easier integration with spoken language and aids comprehension and encourages speech for those with communication difficulties.
Cultural Context
Auslan is closely tied to the Deaf Community and Deaf culture, which includes unique linguistic, social, and cultural aspects. This community is vibrant and diverse, with its own traditions, values, and norms.
In contrast, KWS does not have an associated community or culture; it is primarily used as a communication aid only.
User Demographics
While Auslan is predominantly used by Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals, as well as children of Deaf adults, KWS is commonly employed by individuals with communication difficulties, including children with developmental delays or language disorders. While KWS was initially designed for children and adults with communication difficulties, here at Sunshine Sign and Sign we see benefits for all children in learning KWS. Research into gesture has demonstrated benefits for all children and as a result, we aim to expand the reach of CKWS to encourage its use by all individuals, not just those with communication difficulties. This inclusive approach ensures that everyone can benefit from the communication tool, promoting greater accessibility and understanding among all users.
Etiquette
When comparing Auslan (Australian Sign Language) and Key Word Sign (KWS), a distinct difference emerges in their approach to spoken language.
In Auslan, the cultural norm is to communicate with the voice ‘off’, to preserve the language’s visual essence and avoid confusion. Speaking while signing can water down the importance of sign language, create confusion for those able to lip read, and undermine the visual nature of Auslan.
This approach respects the unique characteristics of Auslan and ensures a clearer communication experience.
The decision to keep the voice “off” while signing also acknowledges the historical suppression of sign languages, particularly the harmful legacy of the Milan Convention, which imposed spoken language dominance over sign language. By maintaining a visual-only approach, Auslan users can preserve the integrity of their language, avoid diluting the message, and show respect for the language and its community.
In contrast, KWS combines key signs with spoken language, supporting communication for individuals with complex needs. The use of spoken language alongside signs in KWS:
• Encourages spoken language development;
• Enhances receptive understanding of both words and signs;
• Supports individuals with communication difficulties to potentially develop speech skills
This integrated approach in KWS fosters a connection between spoken and signs and gestures, promoting comprehensive communication and language development.
Understanding Auslan Dialects
What Are Auslan Dialects?
Just like spoken languages can have different accents, words, and regional expressions, Auslan (Australian Sign Language) has regional variations known as dialects. The two main dialects of Auslan are commonly referred to as the Northern Dialect and the Southern Dialect.
Both dialects are recognised and accepted forms of Auslan. They share the same language structure and grammar, but some signs are produced differently depending on where a person learned Auslan.
Importantly, neither dialect is “correct” or “better” than the other—they simply reflect the rich history and diversity of the Australian Deaf community.
Northern vs Southern Dialects
The most commonly recognised division is:
Northern Dialect
- Queensland
- New South Wales
- Australian Capital Territory
Southern Dialect
- Victoria
- Tasmania
- South Australia
- Western Australia
- Northern Territory
While these groupings are generally accepted, there is significant overlap, and many Auslan users are familiar with signs from both dialects.
What Signs Should I be Using?
At Sunshine Sign and Sing, our goal is to make key word sign a simple, effective communication tool that can be used by both children and adults. This is why we have developed a selection criteria to determine what signs we use within our program, and what we recommend using within yours.
Iconic
We choose signs that are most iconic. This means that the sign looks like what it is.
For example: the sign we have chosen for ‘ball‘ looks like a ball
Common
We choose the sign that is most commonly used within Australia across the dialects.
For example: the sign we have chosen for ‘green‘ is most commonly used in Australia.
Easiest
We choose signs that are the easiest for children to perform.
For example: the sign we have chosen for ‘giraffe‘ is the easiest for children to do.
Further Learning
To learn more about Auslan and regional sign variations, we encourage connecting with local Deaf organisations, Auslan teachers, and members of the Deaf community, who are the custodians and experts of Australia’s signed language.
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