By implementing the project, we aimed to increase access to IS learning for those fluent in their national sign language, among teachers, sign language interpreters, and Deaf individuals, thereby enhancing communication skills within the Deaf community worldwide. Through this project, we intended to utilize our experiences gathered from previously implemented projects as participants or partners in training sessions, where we frequently encountered a lack of educational materials for IS. Often, our communication with foreign partners or Deaf individuals was based on intuitive sign communication. We searched the internet for materials or sign language dictionaries to familiarize ourselves with international vocabulary, which proved to be very difficult to find. Through this project, we wanted individuals who wish to communicate with other Deaf people to acquire both basic theoretical knowledge and practical skills in using IS in the form of a simple course. We ourselves searched for such a course and could not find one, so with the help of an experienced partner from Austria, we developed a curriculum and prepared vocabulary at a basic level.
The project was initiated to meet the growing interest among teachers, Sign Language Interpreters (SLIs), and Deaf individuals in learning International Sign (IS). The lack of IS knowledge creates communication barriers with Deaf individuals and educators in other countries, limiting their mobility and personal and professional development. Our motivation also came from prior experience with an Erasmus+ project, where we noted the absence of IS training facilities and materials in Europe. Since English serves as the international language for hearing individuals, we saw the need to facilitate effective communication for Deaf individuals in Europe. Thus, the project aimed to provide essential information about IS, addressing gaps in awareness among Deaf individuals in Poland and across Europe.