Annali di Ca’ Foscari. Serie occidentale

Journal | Annali di Ca’ Foscari. Serie occidentale
Journal issue | 50 | 2016
Research Article | Access to Knowledge

Access to Knowledge

The Issue of Deaf Students and More

Abstract

Language and communication barriers undermine everyday life for deaf people. In particular in higher education settings, these students often receive limited information and thus struggle to gain full access to knowledge. Considering these linguistic issues from several perspectives, this paper highlights some of the problems that arise in the everyday life of deaf students. Possible short- and long-term solutions to these barriers are presented and discussed. For example, simplified written texts ensure clarity and immediate access to complex and technical texts, but only provide one step toward linguistic autonomy. Linguistic mediation through sign language guarantees both direct access to content and personal involvement in interactive settings.


Open access | Peer reviewed

Submitted: April 12, 2016 | Accepted: July 23, 2016 | Published Sept. 30, 2016 | Language: en

Keywords Deaf studentsAccess to knowledgeLinguistic barriersSpecial education


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