ASL limits deaf child's world

In the field of deaf education, we have seen many changes. The one thing that has been a constant is the endless debate over which philosophy is best for the education of a deaf child. Elaine Jarvik's article focused mainly on deaf — big D — culture and ASL (obviously because of the Deaflympics). However, it was mentioned that there are other ways to work with the Deaf. We have come so far in the world of technology. If a child gets an implant at an early age, he or she will be able to hear. Why would anyone deny a deaf child an opportunity to hear and talk? All deaf children do not need a natural visual language. We live in a hearing world. Very few people know how to sign. Relying on only ASL limits the child's world considerably.

Christine Franco

teacher of the Deaf

Salt Lake City