I. Course Title: Introduction to Deaf and Hard of Hearing
II. Course Number: EDSP 526
III. Credit Hours: 3 credits
IV. Prerequisites: EDSP 651, EDSP 361 or permission of instructor.
V. Course Description:
Introduction to the education of deaf and hard of hearing students (PreK-12) for prospective teachers and other professionals serving deaf/hard of hearing students. iIncludes legislation, trends, issues, etiology, identification, characteristics, Deaf culture, school related needs, communication modes, educational placement options, and organizations and agencies relevant to individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing and their families and the professionals who work with them.
VI. Detailed Description of Content of the Course:
This course examines legislation, judicial mandates, history of Deaf Education and
Deaf culture, and current trends and issues in the education of the deaf/hard of hearing. It
covers etiology, characteristics including socio-cultural and health related problems,
educational placements, communication modes used in educational practices and the
effects of hearing impairments and cultural diversity on the student and their families.
1) Identification criteria
2) Current incidence and prevalence figures
3) Etiologies of hearing loss
4) Communication modes used for educational practices
5) Deaf culture
6) Rights and responsibilities of parents, students, teachers, support personnel,
and schools
7) Educational placement options
8) Effects of hearing loss on language acquisition, speech, and academic achievement
9) Legislative and judicial mandates involving deaf/hard of hearing individuals
VI. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course:
Instructional strategies may include, but are not limited to: lecture, videos and other audiovisual materials, cooperative learning, student projects, presentations, guest speakers, outside readings, and internet research.
VII. Goals and Objectives of the Course:
Goals, objectives, and assignments in this class address the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Initial Preparation Standards and related Knowledge and Skills Items, as well as the Virginia Department of Education Competencies and requirements for preparing educators.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
VIII. Assessment Measures:
Assessment measures may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Other Course Information: This course is co-listed with EDSP 426.
Review and Approval
April 2009
May 11, 2015
Revised by Karen Stinson 2019