This book is based on an in-depth conversation between Howard Burton and renowned researcher of sign languages Carol Padden, the Sanford I. Berman Chair in Language and Human Communication at UC San Diego. This extensive conversation covers topics such as growing up with ASL, Carol’s early work with Bill Stokoe, the linguistic complexity, structure and properties of ASL and other sign languages, the development of new sign languages throughout the world, the role of gesture and embodiment, and much more. This carefully-edited book includes an introduction, Heeding the Signs, and questions for discussion at the end of each chapter:I. Choosing languages - Faulty assumptions and different sidesII. Distance Education - A formative experienceIII. Signing as Language - Bill Stokoe and the development of ASLIV. Diversity and Structure - The many shades of sign languagesV. Distinctiveness - Language, identity, and the question of affordancesVI. Embodiment - Making sense of the world around us through our bodiesVII. A Cultural Window - Change, humour and balanceVIII. Predictions and Proclivities - Speculations on the future, fillers and gender markersIX. Examining Diversity - Brain scans, sign-twisters and gesturing ItaliansX. Making Comparison - Efficiency, community and complexityAbout Ideas Roadshow Conversations Series: Presented in an accessible, conversational format, Ideas Roadshow books not only explore frontline academic research featuring world-leading researchers but also reveal the inspirations and personal journeys behind the research.