Transcript Communication Access: Rhetoric vs. Reality

Communication Access: Rhetoric vs.
Reality
Presented by: Ronald Stern
April 28, 2005
Atlanta, GA
Our Commitment
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Humanization and de-marginalization of
the deaf child is central
Converting rhetoric to action
Reject arrogance, oppression, imperialism
and colonialism
Value voice of the marginalized
Genuine collaboration
Elusiveness of understanding lived
realties of the deaf
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Communication is too multi-faceted and widely
used
Happens so readily and naturally that…
Power of our lens to the world
Elusive even for those closest to the deaf child
Elusiveness of understanding
communication as it applies to the deaf
Paolo Freire (Pedagogy of Freedom):
• Education happens when learners engage in
dialogue
• Students need to bring informal experiences
from playground, home, etc.
• Promote student self-expression
• Role of dinner conversations in reading
achievement
• Must make sure students have genuine
relationships with others
What does communication distinctly mean
for deaf children?
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Something much more mundane,
profound, basic and fundamental
“Mechanical”
Indistinguishable from sense of
belongingness/connection with self,
others, language and information; being
and feeling included
Having autonomy and self determination
Mothers of harmful myth
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Quality access to communication means
quality
Fragmented communication equates
mundane communication
Interpreted communication equates direct
communication
Role of schools/schooling is similar for
deaf children
One classroom/few classrooms make a
school
Teaching can happen without learning
What can we do?
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“Listen to the possessor of the problem – no one knows
better” Paolo Freire
If it is impossible to understand, at least have the
needed humility and the right attitude. Value and seek
the voice and involvement of the deaf adult.
Means and ends must be humane and ethical ; Stop
resorting to the Nuremberg Defense to defend inhumane
practices and interpretations
Do we compromise what is fundamental, ethical,
humane, inalienable to being human and not
marginalized?
Redefine “communication” as it applies to deaf children
Coming together is a beginning.
Keeping together is progress.
Working together is success.
Henry Ford