Lauren J. Lieberman chapter 13 Deafness and Deafblindness

Definition of Deafness Deafness is a hearing loss in which hearing is insufficient for comprehension of auditory information, with or without the use of a hearing aid. The Individual With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) defines “deaf” as having a hearing loss so severe that the individual is unable to process language through hearing, with or without the use of an amplification device. The loss must be severe enough to adversely affect the student’s educational performance (Individuals With Disabilities Education Act, 1997).

Definition of Hard of Hearing IDEA defines “hard of hearing” as a hearing loss that might be permanent or fluctuating and adversely affects the student’s educational achievement or performance (Individuals With Disabilities Education Act, 1997).

Terminology Deaf—The cultural perspective of deafness as a linguistic minority, not a disability. deaf—The medical perspective of deafness as a disability, not a culture. hard of hearing—The term used to describe individuals who are not Deaf but have significant hearing loss (not hearing impaired).

Communication Methods Speaking or hearing Signed exact English Pidgin sign language American sign language A combination of two or more of the above

Types of Hearing Loss Conductive –Middle ear –Some hearing –Might use speech –Might benefit from hearing aids Sensorineural –Inner ear –Limited hearing –Might likely use sign language –Might qualify for a cochlear implant –Might have balance problems Mixed Congenital (2/3) Acquired (1/3)

Behavioral and Affective Characteristics Impulsivity Might be a lack of understanding Frustration Behavior problems, perhaps because of a lack of understanding Other?

Motor Characteristics Sensorineural loss—might have balance problems If given equal opportunity will have equal motor skills Fitness levels equal to hearing peers Parental influence a major factor in psychomotor development

Language and Cultural Characteristics American Sign Language—strong relationship with Deaf culture Varied levels of speech found Decreased opportunities for incidental learning

Considerations for Physical Education Students might experience... –Isolation –Social deprivation –Ridicule Solutions –Peer tutoring program –Teach peers sign language –Offer leadership opportunities

Teaching Considerations for Students With Cochlear Implants Avoid contact sports. Use caution in winter activities. Remove device during water activities. Remove device when sweating. Avoid static electricity. Other?

Inclusion Strategies Discover what they can hear. Are there any contraindications (cochlear implant)? Know all teaching techniques from book. Understand the role of the interpreter. Check for understanding. Promote leadership. Learn sign language. Teach sign language to hearing peers.

Deafblindness When a child has vision and hearing loss significant enough to affect educational performance Does not mean the student is completely deaf and completely blind Most individuals labeled as deafblind have some usable vision or hearing or both

Causes Usher syndrome CHARGE syndrome Rubella Meningitis Prematurity Other?

Issues With Children Who Are Deafblind Isolation Limited incidental learning Social deprivation More time to do everyday things

Communication Modes Verbal or auditory—with or without amplification Sign language –Close up in a small space –Distant sign Tactile sign Picture symbols Object cues

Teaching Techniques for Students Who Are Deafblind Use a multisensory approach. Use intervenors. Use trained peer tutors. Link movement to language (promote movement). Teach age-appropriate activities. Encourage choice making.