The Importance of Deaf Representation in Media In a world where media shapes perceptions, representation matters—especially for marginalized communities like the Deaf and hard of hearing. Authentic and visible representation in television, film, news, and digital content is more than just inclusion—it’s a powerful affirmation of identity, culture, and belonging. Why Representation Matters When Deaf […]
If you’re new to learning about the Deaf community or American Sign Language (ASL), you may have come across different terms like Deaf, deaf, and Hard of Hearing. While they may seem similar at first glance, each term carries its own unique meaning and cultural significance. Let’s break it down: “Deaf” with a Capital D Deaf (capital “D”) refers […]
When many people hear the word Deaf, they think of someone who can’t hear. While that’s true from a medical perspective, being Deaf is about much more than hearing loss—it’s about identity, culture, community, and language. Audiological vs. Cultural Deafness From an audiological standpoint, a Deaf person typically has a profound hearing loss, meaning they hear […]
Daily Practice Ideas Practice With Others Classroom or Study-Based Practice Creative Practice Technology-Based Practice
1. Total Population with Hearing Loss However, this includes a wide range: 2. People Who Identify as Deaf or Seriously Hard of Hearing 3. Breakdown: Deaf vs. Hard of Hearing It’s important to distinguish: Group Estimate Notes Culturally Deaf (use ASL, strong Deaf identity) ~500,000 – 1,000,000 Use ASL as primary language Hard of Hearing (moderate-severe loss) ~10 million […]
STATE-LEVEL INTERPRETER REQUIREMENTS Each state sets its own requirements for sign language interpreters, which may vary widely. However, common expectations include: Typical State-Level Requirements: Pros of State Certification: Limitations: NATIONAL-LEVEL INTERPRETER REQUIREMENTS National certification is typically obtained through RID (Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf), the recognized professional body in the U.S. Typical National-Level Requirements (RID Certification): […]
1. Definition 2. Grammar & Syntax 3. Vocabulary 4. Usage 5. Fluency & Community Perception Summary Chart Feature ASL PSE Type Full natural language Contact sign system Grammar ASL-based (topic-comment) English word order (somewhat) Vocabulary Unique signs, classifiers ASL signs with English structure Used by Deaf community Hearing learners, some Deaf users Fluency recognition Highly valued Seen as less fluent
Comparison of SEE and ASL Language Structure SEE (Signing Exact English): Follows English grammar exactly and uses Subject-Verb-Object word order. Includes all English function words like ‘the’, ‘is’, ‘are’. ASL (American Sign Language): Has its own unique grammar and topic-comment structure. Omits unnecessary words and uses facial expressions and classifiers for meaning. Vocabulary & Signs […]