The Jamaica Association for the Deaf, JAD, has launched launched Jamaica’s first-ever Jamaican Sign
Language Learning Management System, LMS.
The virtual system uses the Jamaican Sign Language, JSL, as a strategy for learning and improving
literacy development among Jamaican deaf students.
The JAD noted that the LMS will further help to build the deaf students’ capacity to learn English as a
second language and is expected to add value to the deaf community.
Executive Director at the JAD, Kimberley Marriott Blake, says the system is made especially for easier
learning during the coronavirus pandemic.
INSERT Clip: Kim Mar Blake on JSL
Mrs Marriott Blake says the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the learning
opportunities for deaf and hard-of-hearing students.
She says school, which was once a safe haven for the students, has to be conducted in a virtual
setting, restricting their learning and freedom of expression.
INSERT Clip: Kim Mar Blake on System
Kimberley Marriott Blake, JAD Executive Director.
Mrs Marriott Blake says she’s confident that the portal will benefit families and schools that nurture
deaf children as it will provide relevant materials to aid in their development.
