Sign language use and the appreciation of diversity in hearing classrooms

Abstract

This article is the result of a year‐long study into the effects of sign language use on participation in one mainstream preschool setting. Observations and interviews were the primary data‐collection tools used during this investigation. This article focuses on how the use of sign language in the classroom affected the learning community's appreciation of diversity. The central themes discussed include appreciation of diverse language and diverse ways of communicating and appreciation of cultural diversity.