Knowledge Exchange 2023 (Hong Kong Sign Language) – LDL | Department of Linguistics

Student Research Assistants from the University of Hong Kong’s Language Development Lab immerse themselves in the world of Deaf and Hearing artists at the Point Line Mean Exhibition.

Facade of Hart Haus with Point Line Mean on exhibit.

As part of the Knowledge Exchange project on Hong Kong Sign Language, our Student Research Assistants (SRAs), Hannah, Kevin, Rachel, and Joanna, serve as docents in the “Point Line Mean” exhibition currently underway at Hart Haus in Kennedy Town.

This unique exhibit explores communication and understanding across divides, particularly between the Deaf and hearing worlds. It features the works of six Hong Kong-based artists, including two familiar faces within LDL: KK, who has served as our Hong Kong Sign Language Consultant, and Arthur (何明偉), a postdoctoral researcher at our lab.

Two of the exhibits were even produced within the Department of Linguistics’ Fieldwork Room, highlighting the close collaboration between the artists and the university.

SRAs Become Docents and Bridge the Gap

A dedicated team of SRAs – Hannah, Kevin, Rachel, and Joanna – took on the role of docents for the exhibition. To prepare for this exciting task, they familiarized themselves with the artwork and the messages conveyed by the artists. This involved not only understanding the pieces themselves but also learning about Deaf culture and the intricacies of Hong Kong Sign Language.

Equipped with this knowledge, the SRAs were able to effectively communicate with the artists throughout the exhibition, using both spoken and sign languages. This fostered a truly immersive experience for the SRAs, allowing them to become deeply involved with the Deaf community and its artistic expression.

Guiding Visitors Towards a Deeper Understanding

The SRAs’ role extended to guiding visitors through the exhibition. By providing insightful explanations and fostering open discussions, they helped visitors gain a richer understanding of the artwork and the Deaf experience. This valuable contribution no doubt played a significant role in the success of the “Point Line Mean” exhibition.

The LDL is thrilled to have our SRAs play such a vital role in this important project. Their dedication and willingness to learn have not only enhanced their own knowledge and perspectives but have also enriched the experience for visitors to the exhibition.

Point Line Mean

HART Haus G/F (G/F, Cheung Hing Industrial Building, 12P Smithfield Road, Kennedy Town)

Details for visitors

Bridge of Signs documentary Special Screening

27 April 2024 (Sat)
5PM to 6PM
HART Haus 4/F (4/F, Cheung Hing Industrial Building, 12P Smithfield Road, Kennedy Town)

A group photo of Jasper and the researchers (Arthur, Youngah, Aaron and Ivy) on completion of the HKSL Lessons. Jasper is given the certificate for attaining Level 3 proficiency. — Jasper (middle) on completion of the HKSL lessons.

A group photo of Kevin and the researchers (Youngah, Aaron) on completion of the HKSL Lessons. Kevin is given the certificate for attaining Level 3 proficiency. — Jasper (middle) on completion of the HKSL lessons.

Over the past five months, from January to May 2023, Rachel, Jasper, Tiffany, and Kevin have successfully completed a 24-hour immersive course in Hong Kong Sign Language (HKSL), as part of an ongoing research investigation into Hong Kong Sign Language, conducted by Youngah and Arthur of the Language Development Lab.

Throughout the course, the students engaged in twice-per-week, one-on-one immersive sessions with Ms. KONG Wan Ki (KK), a senior trainer from the Professional Sign Language Centre. With their trainer unable to hear, the students were required to use HKSL, supplemented with writing tools, to communicate, thereby fostering a comprehensive understanding of the language.

A photo of Jasper with HKSL trainer KK. — KK and Jasper

A photo of Rachel with HKSL trainer KK. — KK and Jasper

Upon completing the course, the students achieved Level III proficiency in the Centre’s curriculum, which is recognized by the Hong Kong Sign Language Association. In total, they have acquired 655 individual signs in Hong Kong Sign Language.

We would like to acknowledge the remarkable efforts of Rachel, Jasper, Tiffany, and Kevin, and express our gratitude to KK and the Professional Sign Language Centre for their invaluable support throughout the course. Their commitment and diligence have significantly contributed to the progress of our research.