"Be patient, try your best."; Vincennes University professor gives advice to help the deaf during th

"Be patient, try your best."; Vincennes University professor gives advice to help the deaf during the pandemic

The pandemic has been difficult for everyone.

But for those in the deaf community..

The problems go beyond how they communicate.

News 10 bureau chief gary brian tells us about one local professor's experience and what "you" can do to help.

Gar} "janet schwall has taught american sign language at vincennes university for almost nineteen years.

But like many other professors, 2020 has posed challenges."

In her classes... schwall teaches students to speak using their hands, body movements, and mouth.

Using expressions to help express themselves.

"in asl, signing, mouth movements, eye movements, eye brow movements, the mouth and the mouthing can explain adverbs and adjectives."

The pandemic has put a roadblock on much of that communication.

That roadblock comes in the form of a facemask.

"going to the grocery store, talk about akward.

So you go in, you've got a mask on, i have no idea if people are trying to talk to me."

This communication breakdown goes into every public setting.

Schwall says for her and her family it can be difficult.

But she says there are things that can help.

One way is to use a mask with clear plastic over your mouth.

That way the deaf can still read your lips.

Another is using common gestures to covey your message.

Schwall says it's all about working together and being patient.

"getting out of your comfort zone, not being afraid, be patient, try your best.

If something dosen't work try a different technique."

Gar} "if you'd like more information on how to make a deaf-friendly face mask head over to our website at wthitv.com and click on this story.

Working from home in vincennes, gary brian news 10."

////////// indiana state university has released a covid-19 policy.

It deals with employees and their family members at a higher risk for severe illness.

The temporary policy allows workplace modifications, and the opportunity to work remotely.

It also allows employees to use vacation, sick, or unpaid leave.

Employees can submit requests.

Some circumstances may require a health-care provider's health-care may require a circumstances some requests.

Can submit employees leave.

Sick, or unpaid use vacation, employees to allows it also work remotely.

Opportunity to and the modifications, workplace policy allows temporary the severe illness.

Higher risk for members at a their family employees and it deals with covid-19 policy.

Released a university has state indiana ////////// indiana state university has released a university has