3/27/2024

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Legislation passed in 1990 to prohibit discrimination against individuals with disabilities in various areas, ensuring equal opportunities and access to services.

Five Titles of ADA

Employment, State and Local Government Services, Public Accommodations, Telecommunications, and Miscellaneous Provisions, covering different aspects of accessibility and rights for individuals with disabilities.

ASL Interpreter

A professional who facilitates communication between Deaf and hearing individuals by translating spoken language into American Sign Language (ASL) and vice versa.

Video Relay Service (VRS)

Introduced to provide natural conversation using Spoken English and ASL, empowering the Deaf community with communication freedom.

Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI)

Role and qualifications of a Deaf individual trained to interpret for other Deaf individuals, ensuring accurate and culturally appropriate communication.

Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Act (EDHI)

Legislation mandating audiological and early childhood intervention programs for newborns to detect and address hearing issues early.

World Federation of the Deaf (WFD)

International organization advocating for the rights of Deaf individuals worldwide, emphasizing access to education, sign language, and equal opportunities.

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act 1973

Legislation ensuring equal access to education for individuals with disabilities in public and private schools, including free lunch programs.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) 2015

Replaced the No Child Left Behind Act, focusing on academic standards, testing, and school accountability to provide quality education for all students.

Theory of Mind (TOM)

The ability to understand others' feelings and intentions, crucial for social and emotional development, particularly in Deaf children.

Post-secondary options

Include continuing education, vocational training, independent living, and access to adult services.

Transition planning

Begins under the IEP from age 14 years until the 22nd birthday.

Vocational Rehabilitative (VR) Service

Starts at age 14 during the Deaf youth’s pre-employment stage, providing job coaching and developing the Individual Work Plan for Employment (IPE).

Barriers

Generic and superficial quality of transition training, need for more time, challenges of living independently, and with or without a roommate.

Deaf students statistics

Community colleges enroll 70.3% in 2-year associate programs, with 26.1% in STEM, taking 5 years to enroll with a 51% completion rate.

Pros of attending a School for the Deaf

Cultural connection, specialized instruction, accessible environment, positive peer support, and rich language development.

Cons of attending a School for the Deaf

Limited exposure to the hearing world, possibly limited diversity, resource allocation challenges, potential over-protection, and limited exposure to different communication styles.

Pros of attending a Mainstreaming Setting

Diverse social environment, preparation for real-world integration, access to resources, increased independence, and expanded career opportunities.

Cons of attending a Mainstreaming Setting

Communication challenges, potential for social isolation, limited understanding of Deaf culture, possible lack of specialized support, and educational gaps.