Frequently Asked Questions: Culture Within the Deaf Community

Abstract

Oftentimes, people want to get involved in the Deaf community, but are not comfortable asking questions about their culture. This webinar provides them an opportunity for reviewing the questions that they want to ask.

This webinar will explain that there are members of the Deaf community that are very unique and differ in many ways, but there are also some mainstream similarities. American Sign Language (ASL) is the preferred mode of communication. Striving to understand Deaf culture can be a critical step forward in showing respect for a community with a rich history

This presentation will be given using American Sign Language (ASL) and spoken English (interpreting) with the visual "assistance" of a PowerPoint. Throughout the presentation, the participants will be asked for their experiences, knowledge and observations of Deaf culture within their communities. There will be also a few mini lessons of Deaf culture. Several instant polls will be taken to gage the audience's opinions and experiences pertaining to the topics presents. At the end of the presentation, there will be time for questions and further discussion about topics the participants feel are most relevant.

Learning Objectives

After attending and participating in the presentation, participants will be able to:

1. Appreciate the American Deaf culture.

2. Develop a positive view of Deaf people.

3. Explain the importance of American Sign Language, Deaf culture, and Deaf history within the signing community to others.

4. Be more familiar with and open to Deaf culture in school and workplaces across the country.

5. Recognize that Deaf is a preferred term.