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Deafness and Communication (EDUC20069)

Undergraduate level 2Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

Availability(Quotas apply)
February
Semester 2
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This subject will explore a range of aspects of deafness, including communication, technology and Auslan, or Australian sign language. It will examine deafness from a linguistic and cultural view to gain insight into human communication and the relationship between culture and language. This subject will investigate the impact of deafness on communication, literacy, social development, access and equity, and also consider how technology impacts on the lives of people who are deaf. Other topics covered will include a brief introduction to sign language, bilingual approaches to learning, deaf culture, the cochlear implant, noise induced hearing loss and the development of spoken language in deaf children.

Intended learning outcomes


  • Understand the central role of communication in society and that deafness primarily impacts upon communication;
  • Develop an understanding of the full range of perspectives of deafness, including medical, social and cultural;
  • Understand the benefits and limitations of technology in the lives of deaf people;
  • Compare the range of educational approaches available to children and young people who are deaf and consider the implications of these for academic and social development.

Generic skills

Students will

  • understand how deafness impacts on language development and culture;
  • experience the implications of deafness for communication development;
  • learn some basic Auslan skills;
  • discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different perspectives on deafness.

Last updated: 9 February 2025