Deaf Learners Research Articles

It all made sense: ASL-first approach in classroom practice.

This qualitative study delves into the innovative Bilingual Grammar Curriculum. The curriculum aims to enhance bilingualism and linguistic skills among deaf students by integrating American Sign Language instruction and written language grammatical structures. The researcher conducted in-depth interviews with 12 experienced educators of the deaf who have implemented the curriculum in their teaching practices. Employing a thematic analysis approach, the researcher sought to uncover the educators' perceptions, experiences, and insights regarding the curriculum's effectiveness and its impact on bilingual language acquisition for deaf learners. Findings revealed a diverse range or perspectives, highlighting both the advantages and challenges of the curriculum's implementation. Themes emerged encompassing the curriculum's alignment with linguistic theories, its adaptability to diverse learning needs, the role of educator training, and the incorporation of cultural nuances within bilingual instruction. The study contributes valuable insights to the field of deaf education, shedding light on the intricate dynamics of bilingual grammar pedagogy and providing recommendations for curriculum refinement and educator professional development. Ultimately, this research underscores the significance of innovative approaches in enhancing the linguistic abilities and educational experiences of deaf and hard-of-hearing students within a bilingual framework.

Teachers implementing Zimbabwean sign language regulatory frameworks for deaf learners in special schools

Effective implementation of sign language-based instruction is crucial for providing quality education to Deaf learners at special schools. Teachers experienced challenges to effectively implement sign language policies for the Deaf learners in Zimbabwean special schools. However, this study explores how teachers implement sign language regulatory frameworks for Deaf Learners in special schools. Drawing on qualitative data from teachers, headmasters, school inspectors, and psychologists. The findings revealed critical gaps in the in-service training and professional development opportunities available to teachers serving Deaf students. Despite teachers reporting difficulties with sign language fluency and inadequate understanding of Deaf culture and pedagogy, the study found a disconnect between teachers' expressed needs and the perspectives of district-level officials, who often did not perceive additional training as necessary. This study further highlights the heavy reliance on support from external donor organizations and NGOs to provide teachers with limited sign language workshops and resources. This overreliance on precarious external funding sources compromises the sustainability and scalability of professional development initiatives. The study's implications call for a comprehensive, government-led strategy to ensure all teachers in Deaf schools receive robust, long-term training in sign language, Deaf education methodologies, and Deaf cultural competence. Strengthening the capacity of the teaching workforce is essential for upholding the rights of Deaf learners to receive instruction in their primary language and achieving meaningful implementation of sign language policies. This study contributes vital empirical evidence to inform policy reforms and teacher training programmes to support using Zimbabwean Sign Language as a medium of instruction for the Deaf.

Reading achievement and deaf students with cochlear implants

Objectives The purpose of this study was to investigate the reading outcomes of a Canadian cohort of school-aged deaf learners with cochlear implants (CIs). The goal was to investigate whether achievement approached that of hearing age peers and identify demographic factors influencing performance. Methods Participants represent a subset of 13 students with CIs from a larger sample of 70 deaf students in grades four through 12 educated in inclusive settings within a large school board in central Canada. Data sources included demographic information, teachers’ ratings on the Categories of Auditory Performance (CAP), and scores from the Woodcock-Johnson III Diagnostic Reading Battery [WJ III-DRB]. Results/Discussion: Participants performed within the low average range in all areas except for Phonological Awareness, which was in the low range; however, there was wide variability in scores across participants. None of the demographic variables (e.g. home language, additional disabilities) had a statistically significant association with performance, although older students had higher mean scores on the Phonological Awareness cluster. Conclusion These findings add to the body of research on literacy achievement and cochlear implantation, providing evidence that this technology has a significant positive effect on outcomes for a population that has heretofore underperformed in this area.

Differences in the type of vocabulary understood by deaf and hearing students: Results to guide interventions

IntroductionVocabulary knowledge is an essential element in language development. There is evidence of significant differences in vocabulary knowledge between deaf children and hearing peers of the same age. These differences put deaf students at a disadvantage when compared to their hearing counterparts. The aim of this study was to investigate whether certain types of words characterise the lexical difficulties of deaf students. Our starting point is that this knowledge is needed to design interventions that are adapted to the particular needs of these students for their lexical development. MethodsWe evaluated the lexical comprehension of 90 Spanish students. The sample comprised 45 hearing students and 45 students with severe or profound hearing loss. Both groups were attending the later years of primary school (8 to –12-year-olds). They were tested using the Spanish Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-III. The performance of both groups was statistically compared using percentiles and standard scores as well as a selected set of words from the test. ResultsNo significant differences between hearing and deaf groups were found by age, sex, and sociocultural level. Significant differences were found between groups in their percentile and standard scores. There were no significant differences in performance between the two groups on only five of the 25 words with the highest error rate in the deaf group. The qualitative analysis of the remaining 20 words that were especially challenging for deaf students reveals results of interest which could help guide interventions. ConclusionsThe results indicate the need for lexical intervention for deaf students in the final years of primary school. The specialised support service for deaf learners should approach the intervention by targeting a specific type of vocabulary, making the semantic relationships between these words more transparent and promoting a deeper understanding of them.

Multilingual and multimodal methods to examining the situated communication among deaf children and their caregivers

ABSTRACT This paper discusses methodologies for examining the multilingual language experiences of young deaf children that are sensitive to different cultural contexts of childhood, caregiving and language practices. We argue that in the context of early support, the combined use of situated multilingual and multimodal approaches to examine and assess individual language resources can provide rich and reliable information about individual communicative repertoires in their given context. This approach extends commonly used monolingual and unimodal research and assessment tools that lack the inclusivity of reach and granularity of analysis needed to inform contextually appropriate early intervention for multilingual and migrant deaf learners. We illustrate the potential of these methods using case study examples from multimodal video-based and ethnographic data gathering and analysis techniques deployed across three projects in different multilingual contexts, in Ghana and the UK. We use these case studies to examine the methodological choices, challenges and opportunities of researching different multilingual environments in culturally sensitive ways as a basis for supporting and assessing the language and communication development of young deaf children in multilingual and migrant contexts. We discuss how the resulting new knowledge base can extend Euro-Western epistemologies that are currently leading models of early intervention and support.

Adapting Self-Regulated Strategy Development Model to Teach Deaf Learners English Writing Skills

Adapting Self-Regulated Strategy Development Model to Teach Deaf Learners English Writing Skills

A bilingual-bicultural literacy programme for deaf learners in Namibia

The poor academic performance and literacy level of deaf learners in Namibia are a major concern, and it is necessary to understand the center of the situation. Even though deaf learners can become proficient readers and writers, the challenge remains in finding an appropriate instructional approach to attain these results. This presents an even greater challenge, as deaf learners not only differ from their hearing peers, but also significantly differ from one another in terms of their various familial and social contexts, language use, and overall holistic development. The Bilingual-Bicultural approach is considered a good approach for teaching deaf learners, and it offers them the chance to become biliterate; therefore this study explored the impact of a Bilingual-Bicultural literacy program on 41 d/hh learners (age = 7-13 yrs). Through a one-group pre-test post-test design, a group of participants were pre-evaluated, followed by an intervention and post-evaluation. The intervention's main goal was to implement practical teaching strategies using a Bilingual-Bicultural teaching approach that can reduce the delay and gap in language learning and literacy for deaf learners. Results from t-tests calculated to determine the statistical significance of the pre and post-test with regard to the total scores and all the sub-tests for NSL as well as Written English skills indicated significant results (p< 0.05). The study offers insight into the psychology of teaching deaf learners while also advancing the theory and application of the Bilingual-Bicultural approach. Additionally, it promotes debate of the best practices for ensuring that deaf learners receive a quality education and full participation in society.

Literacy and signing deaf students: a multi-national scoping review.

Many literature reviews or other types of reviews (e.g., meta-analyses, scoping reviews) in deaf education research are focused upon primarily or exclusively research that is performed in U.S. contexts or English-speaking contexts only. However, research that is conducted in non-English-speaking, non-U.S. settings that may be more likely to be multilingual, has value for our understanding of how deaf students using multiple languages may develop literacy skills. The objective of this review was to explore the literature on literacy development with deaf learners conducted outside of English-speaking contexts that has been published in English, Portuguese, or Spanish. We identified 13 English-language articles, 9 Portuguese-language articles, and 0 Spanish articles that met inclusion criteria. From these articles, we glean important insights into the reading process, including the teaching of subskills of reading, writing instruction, early literacy experiences, and the potential relationship between signed languages and literacy. We also note the need for multiple, converging sources of evidence and the value of an asset-driven approach to understanding deaf learners.

Deaf learners’ academic and social difficulties and coping mechanisms in Ethiopian elementary schools

This study examined deaf learners’ academic and social difficulties as well as their coping mechanisms in Ethiopian elementary schools. To do this, the study adopted a phenomenological design from qualitative research methodology. Purposive sampling methods were used to choose nine deaf students for semi-structured interviews. Using word-by-word narrative analysis, data were analyzed. The lack of sign language interpreters and teachers' exclusionary behaviors were found to be some of the academic and social obstacles faced by deaf learners in the research area. The study also found that deaf learners in participating schools used problem-focused coping techniques, including pen-and-paper techniques for interpersonal communication, and maladaptive coping mechanisms like ignoring and social withdrawal. According to the report, local authorities should organize awareness workshops for instructors from participating schools on how to instruct deaf learners in inclusive environments.

Multisectoral practices supporting deaf learners’ academic performance at an inclusive school in Lesotho

Multisectoral practices supporting deaf learners’ academic performance at an inclusive school in Lesotho

Developing Podcast-Based Learning Media for English Education Among Deaf Students

This study addresses the educational challenges faced by deaf students in Indonesia, focusing on developing and implementing a specialised Android-based application, "PODclusive," to facilitate English language learning. The research aimed to create an interactive learning tool that incorporates sign language and textual translations in both English and Indonesian, tailored to the needs of deaf learners. The methodology was a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative and quantitative analyses. The research and development (R&D) framework guided the application's design, development, and evaluation. Participants included a purposive sample of 30 deaf students from SLB N Pringsewu, ensuring a representation across different learning outcomes. The findings revealed that the PODclusive application significantly enhanced the learning experience for deaf students. Students demonstrated improved comprehension of English language concepts, facilitated by the application’s use of sign language video content and offline accessibility. The application was evaluated through expert reviews and user testing, receiving high validity scores for content, design, and educational impact. The implications of this study underscore the effectiveness of tailored educational technologies in addressing specific learning needs. The PODclusive application exemplifies how digital tools can enhance accessibility and engagement for deaf students, suggesting that further exploring similar technologies could be beneficial. This research contributes to the broader discourse on inclusive education, advocating for more innovative approaches to support diverse learning environments.

Moving between worlds: Creativity, disability and storytelling

In this essay, the author, using second person, considers the path her deaf body has taken to become a writer and an academic. She contrasts the strictures of the neoliberal university with the creativity that comes from deafness; a creativity that has fostered a generative movement between the disciplines of literary studies and creative writing. She considers the importance of combining the study of Australian literature with the study of creative writing and concludes by dwelling upon an architectural ethos that is predicated upon the care of deaf learners – DeafSpace.

Possible beings: Deaf children and linguistic justice

ABSTRACT This paper discusses the case of Carter Churchill v. Newfoundland and Labrador English School District and analyses legal documents as they illuminate current understanding of linguistic justice and relational ethics. This case is a test case for the standard of education provided to deaf learners in Canada who benefit from sign language. Linguistic justice considers language issues as they are relevant to social justice. The paper first discusses the linguistic justice framework in relation to deaf children’s right to sign language, then analyses legal documents from the case for what they reveal about patterns of inaction on the part of senior educational administrators and deficiency views of American Sign Language (ASL) that are pervasive in Canadian early intervention and education systems for deaf children. While the 2023 Human Rights Commission of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Board of Inquiry decision found the school district failed to provide reasonable accommodation and discriminated against Carter during the first four years of his education, this decision and related events stop short of ordering linguistic justice for deaf children in the form of sign language policy and planning that fulfils a society’s ethical responsibilities to deaf people.

SKILLQUEST EDU: GAME-BASED EDUCATION FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES (DEAF)

Skill Quest Edu is an innovative platform empowering deaf individuals in mastering pronunciation and language skills with over 90% accuracy. In the current educational landscape, traditional approaches may not fully accommodate diverse learning needs, leading to limited resources and disparities. Our proposed system addresses these challenges by integrating game-based education, providing interactive learning experiences tailored to individual strengths and challenges. SkillQuest Edu aims to bridge communication barriers, fostering confidence and proficiency in language acquisition among deaf learners.

The Impact of metacognitive strategies on the development of language competence for secondary cycle learners with Hearing impairment

This study, which is part of doctoral research into applied Arabic linguistics and comparison, aimed to identify the impact of teaching using metacognitive learning strategies on developing linguistic competence for the Arabic language for deaf learners in LALLA ASMAE foundation for deaf children in Rabat-Morocco. To achieve the research objectives, theresearcher used the descriptive and the quasi-experimental methodologies approaches, and the research sample comprised two groups; experimental have been learned by the 5E-Learning cycle strategy and Self-Questioning, and the control group by an ordinary method.Study tools:- Mykle Bust test for diagnosis of learning disabilities.- Linguistic competence test (examined its psychometric stabilities).The results showed that there were significant differences at (α 0.05) between the average scores of the learners of the experimental and control group in the post-test of the linguistic competence in the Arabic language in favor of the experimental group used the 5E-Learning cycle and self-questioning strategy in teaching. There were also no statistically significant differences at (α 0.05) in the mean of student's scores on the post-test of the linguistic competence and language Fields due to the gender variable. Results confirm the positive effect of metacognitive strategies, specifically the 5E-Learning cycle and Self-Questioning. So, it is recommended to increase the use of metacognitive strategies in the educational learning process, especially for Hearing impairment learners and encouraging research to apply metacognitive strategies in teaching various fields of Arabic language skills in addition to generalizing the study of these strategies at different educational levels

Communication barriers and deaf learner misbehaviour in a South African special needs school

Mainstream schools often encounter problems with learner behaviour which disrupt effective teaching and learning. Inclusive special schools with learners with disabilities, including learners who are deaf, are not spared such problems. This is so especially when they face the challenges of communication barriers. This paper focuses on the influence of communication barriers on misbehaviour by learners who are deaf. The research was a qualitative case study conducted in Gauteng province of South Africa at an inclusive special needs school with learners with disabilities. It aimed to establish the effectiveness of interventions for managing behaviour among the learners. The study found that effective communication plays a vital role in the positive management of the behaviour of deaf learners. It recommends that the learners who are deaf be provided access to language and specialized communication support and language resources such as oral interpreting, sign language, and hearing aids.

Reducing mathematics anxiety among deaf learners through relaxation and rational emotive behaviour therapies: A randomised-control study

The effects of Rational Emotive Behavioural Therapy (REBT) and Relaxation Therapy (RT) on mathematics anxiety (MA) were examined among Deaf learners (DLs) in Oyo State in Nigeria. The randomized controlled study adopted a purposive sampling procedure to select three schools for the Deaf and Deaf learners (DLs) in Oyo State. A random sampling procedure was employed to select 60 DLs who were assigned to two experimental groups REBT (n = 25; male = 10; female = 15), RT (n = 17; male = 8; female = 9), and a control group (n = 20; male = 11; female = 9). The Mathematics Anxiety Scale (MAS) was used to screen the participants. The data gathered were analysed using the analysis of variance and descriptive charts. The findings revealed the efficacy of the two therapeutic interventions in reducing MA among DLs. The estimated mean difference between the treatment and control groups showed the following: REBT (15.66), RT (11.63), and control group (9.99). This study, therefore, concluded that REBT and RT were effective at drastically reducing Deaf learners’ anxiety regarding mathematics. Appropriate recommendations were made and implications were highlighted for practice, policy, and research, based on the findings

Sign Bilingualism Method Bridging the Gap between Language and Literacy among Deaf Learners

The education of Deaf/d students faced unique education challenges, particularly in the language and literacy development. This paper provides a comprehensive overview current education system of Deaf. It addresses critical issues such as language acquisition, literacy proficiency, mathematical learning, and logical problem-solving skills among Deaf learners. The paper underscores the importance of the sign bilingualism method in the education of Deaf individuals, emphasizing its role in bridging the gap between language and literacy development. It stresses the pivotal role of Sign Bilingualism in achieving objective language development and its use in literacy development. By recognizing the significance of Sign Bilingualism in Deaf education, educators and stakeholders can contribute to a more inclusive learning environment for Deaf learners.

An Assessment of the Appropriateness of Kenyan Sign Language Examination for Hearing Students

Kenyan Sign Language is a vital language for the Deaf community in Kenya and plays a pivotal role in their communication and education. This study investigates the appropriateness of including hearing students in the Kenyan Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) Kenyan Sign Language (KSL) examination, originally designed and adapted for deaf students. The research employed a qualitative approach, exploratory design and drawn upon the foundation of Critical Pedagogy. Purposive sampling was used to select seven(7) participants who are teachers of KSL and have experience in teaching both the hearing and deaf learners. Data was collected through interviews and analyzed thematically. The study findings underscore the need for a comprehensive reassessment of the KSL examination, considering the linguistic diversity and cognitive abilities of both deaf and hearing learners. The suggested strategies aim to create a more inclusive and equitable assessment system that respects the unique needs of each group, fostering a fair and accurate evaluation of their proficiency in Kenyan Sign Language. The researcher firmly recommends the exclusion of regular learners from KSL, KCSE examinations administered by the Kenya National Examination Council. Citing the tailored nature of the current 8-4-4 system’s Kenyan Sign Language (KSL) curriculum and exams for deaf students, the proposal emphasizes that regular students desiring to acquire KSL skills could opt for extracurricular KSL club participation.

The Use of Visual Aids to Improve Deaf Students’ English Vocabulary: A Literature Review

This literature review examines the efficacy of employing visual aids to enhance the acquisition of English vocabulary among deaf students. It investigates the vital role of visual aids in conveying meaning, enhancing memory and cognitive functions, and fostering engagement. The review discusses their effectiveness in promoting contextual comprehension, improving learning outcomes, and the integration of visual aids with sign language for deaf learners. The study also addresses the challenges that deaf students encounter, such as learning English as a foreign language, lack of exposure, and the complexities of abstract concepts. The implications of this research highlight the need for collaborative efforts between ESL teachers and sign language experts to develop accurate and culturally relevant visual aids. The review concludes by emphasizing the importance of context-based learning, hands-on experiences, and multisensory approaches to cater to the diverse learning needs of deaf students. This synthesis contributes valuable insights for educators, researchers, and policymakers seeking to enhance vocabulary learning experiences for deaf students through the effective integration of visual aids.