Douglas Watson

A National Research Agenda for the Postsecondary Education of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students: A Road Map for the Future

This article describes converging nationwide changes in the postsecondary education of students with hearing loss during the past 30 years. Simultaneous trends in the economy, labor force, and business practices have magnified the need for literacy, postsecondary training, and career skills. These conditions stimulated institutional and professional activities that led to drafting a National Research Agenda report to guide development of federally funded research projects in postsecondary education. These studies will enhance better understanding of the complex interactions of diverse support services, learning-living environments, and student populations in a broad continuum of post-high school vocational and academic training programs. The conceptual framework of the Agenda is explained, as are its expected goals, criteria for research projects, benefits, and outcomes. This article interweaves the perspectives and roles of postsecondary and vocational rehabilitation professionals, federal officials, and researchers contributing to the preparation of the Agenda report. Relevant national research studies are cited and consumer involvement in research is emphasized.

Sign Language Program Structure and Content in Institutions of Higher Education in the United States, 1994-2004

The purpose of this study was to compare important characteristics of sign language programs in institutions of higher education in the United States in 1994 and 2004. Data were collected regarding (a) program structure, (b) program content and resources, and (c) opinions and recommendations of program administrators.Data show that sign language programs have become increasingly accepted and entrenched in American postsecondary institutions. Additionally, data in a variety of categories support the theory that these programs have become more stabilized in terms of leadership and coordination, position within the institution, structure, and standardization of content.This article discusses a ten-year comparative study by the authors. The results of three research questions were published in the American Annals of the Deaf (Spring 2008); this article provides the results of the remaining three research questions.

The Status of Sign Language Instruction in Institutions of Higher Education: 1994-2004

Surveys of sign language programs in institutions of higher education in the United States, conducted in 1994 and 2004, are compared to reveal changes over time. Data are presented concerning the institutional environment of programs, program administrators, and instructors. Institutions examined in 2004 were on average 5 years older than those examined in 1994. More institutions accepted sign language for general education and foreign language requirements. Program administrators in 2004 were more likely to have primary duties as teachers rather than administrators, and to have greater understanding of the subject matter. Faculty in 2004 had more education and teaching experience. Full-time faculty showed increases in the proportion who were Deaf and the proportion who were in tenure-track positions. Program staff size increased. Overall, evidence indicates that sign language has become more accepted as an academic discipline and that programs are more entrenched at their institutions.

Quality Educational Programming

What are the distinguishing characteristics of a quality educational program for deaf children and adults? What will those characteristics be in the future? The panelists discuss the programs, processes and technologies involved in early identification, diagnosis, intervention, monitoring, treatment and education of hearing impaired individuals. The panelists present evaluation and prognostication on teacher preparation, certification and evaluation; placement models; accreditation criteria and processes for educational programs; educational support services; and the impact of current and emerging legislation.