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We want a hearing, talking teacher!

See more: Teaching Hearing Subjects: 12 things you should know

Have you ever had a signing Deaf teacher, yourself? Do you remember how super wonderful it was: to communicate with the teacher in your own language? So much easier, to understand! So much easier, to ask questions!

It is the same for many hearing people: we want a hearing teacher who uses our own language. A teacher who uses sign language: difficult! If we are beginners, we don’t understand you all the time. We are afraid to ask questions. We want to tell you something, but we don’t know how.  We will speak, maybe even shout!, and then we are upset, when you don’t understand what we are saying. If we can choose, we will choose a class with a hearing teacher. No disrespect.  You may be the very best teacher ever. But a hearing teacher is sooo much easier!

What might work:

  • Sign slowly. Use simple language. Be patient.
  • Explain that we are in your class, to learn sign language. Explain that you understand that not using voice is difficult for hearing people, but that it is the best way to learn a sign language.
  • Explain, that ‘immersion’ is a well-known and effective strategy for language learning. The best way to learn French? A French teacher! The best way to learn sign language? A Deaf teacher!