How can you learn the language of deaf and dumb people?

First a correction

The phrase or term "Dumb" is into days language more of a detrimental term meaning stupid. It is more acceptable to use the term Deaf without speech. Because that is what frequently occurs. Many deaf people have a voice but because they have not heard speech from birth they have difficulty forming the sounds as a hearing child would.

To learn sign you have a number of options.

1. Buy a book which takes you through the alphabet and a vast array of sign

Draw back with this is that hearing people will not always have a person to practice with and therefore have difficulty picking up the ability to "read sign"

But is can work

2. do as above and have someone who is deaf or is capable of sign to mentor you. This does work really well and if the mentor is deaf you will soon bond. The skills increase quickly as your having to use them more in a relaxed situation plus as a hearing person you may actually be able to provide assistance if they need someone who can interpret to some small degree.

3. Join a class environment which teaches sign as a "language". Some county's have adult learning options in local schools etc that provide lessons at varying degrees.

4. Use all of these options. Also consider contacting Deaf organisations in your country. They will frequently have information about learning paths, where these take place and the cost if any in learning. they will frequently have books and other media with signs in that will help and support.

The deaf will always appreciate someone taking time to learn and understand how to communicate. It does not matter if your not that good initially as this community will always try to assist.