Interesting read. Even though it was written a while back much of it applies today. The controversy still exists. It also supports what I believe in that there is no panacea approach and that you have to treat each person as an individual.
Source:
Options in Deaf Education-History, Methodologies, and Strategies for Surviving the System
Excerpt:
Quote:
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING EDUCATIONAL OPTIONS
A vital aspect of choosing the right education for your child is remembering that although your child is deaf, he is an individual. Each person has a different learning style. “We need to understand that no two deaf people are alike; many professionals seem to have a one-size-fits-all mentality when it comes to educational strategies for deaf children. The truth is, there is an ongoing controversy over the best ways to educate the deaf, and most of the arguments center around communication methods. The best thing to do is evaluate, determine the best environment, and go with the child’s strengths.” Almost all of the professionals surveyed for this article advocated flexibility when choosing options. Regardless of personal preference, most suggested that parents really examine all of the methods and learning strategies. “Parents need information about all methods, contact with people who follow different philosophies, and plenty of flexibility in the professionals who are helping them make their decisions. Another expert added: “[Parents] need to know they can add other approaches. Many of the professionals and parents felt the toolbox approach useful. “There are options—plural. There is no one option in the educational world of a deaf child. Don’t let anyone try to sell you on any one option while disregarding the others. All kids are different and have different needs. No one option can meet the needs of all deaf children.
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