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Terrell Brittain
This is a six-week course providing a historical overview of the American Deaf community and its evolving culture. Theoretical frameworks from sociology are explored. Deafness as a culture and not a disability is explained as participants are guided into the world of Deaf culture.
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OpenCourser.com/course/mnefi9/american
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What's inside
Syllabus
Module 1: Discrimination and Audism
Introduction to course and explanation of Civil Rights struggles for the American Deaf community. Detailed explanation of the term “audism”.
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Syllabus
Module 1: Discrimination and Audism
Introduction to course and explanation of Civil Rights struggles for the American Deaf community. Detailed explanation of the term “audism”.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Examines the discrimination and audism faced by the American Deaf community, providing a strong foundation for understanding the challenges and struggles they have faced
Provides a comprehensive overview of the core values, terminology, and jargon of American Deaf Culture, helping learners to understand the unique aspects of this culture
Explores the communication options available to members of the American Deaf community, with a focus on American Sign Language, helping learners understand the importance of language acquisition for deaf children
Discusses U.S. laws affecting the American Deaf community and educational options, providing learners with insights into the legal and educational landscape
Provides a historical overview of the American Deaf community, helping learners understand the evolution and development of this community over time
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Reviews summary
Exploring american deaf culture and community
According to students, this course serves as an invaluable introduction to American Deaf Culture, effectively challenging the medical view of deafness and highlighting it as a rich and vibrant culture. Many learners found the lectures and module content highly engaging and informative, covering critical topics like audism, language acquisition, history, and core values. However, a significant portion of reviewers reported frustration with the assessment design, finding quizzes and exams often poorly worded, confusing, or overly focused on memorizing specific details from lectures rather than testing broader understanding. While the content is widely praised for its importance and perspective-shifting power, the assessment method is a common point of criticism. The course pace is generally manageable, although some found the overall structure or clarity inconsistent in certain modules.
Course pace and workload generally accessible.
"The pace of the course was very manageable, allowing me to keep up with the material."
"I was able to complete the weekly workload within the suggested time frame."
"The workload felt appropriate for a 6-week introductory course."
Lectures and modules are interesting.
"The content was absolutely fascinating and well presented."
"I found the modules on Audism and language acquisition particularly engaging and insightful."
"Overall, the course provided a great overview of important aspects of Deaf Culture."
"The material was interesting and important to learn about."
Provides valuable perspective on Deaf culture.
"This course was an eye-opening experience for me regarding Deaf culture."
"I learned a wealth of valuable information about Deaf Culture."
"It really shifted my perspective on deafness from a medical condition to a vibrant culture."
"I highly recommend this course to anyone wanting to learn about deaf culture from a cultural standpoint."
"This course is crucial for challenging audism and medical biases."
Instructor presence/support sometimes lacking.
"There wasn't much presence from the instructor in the discussion forums or Q&A."
"It felt difficult to get questions answered quickly or effectively by the course team."
"Limited interaction with the course team or other students made discussions less valuable."
Course structure and clarity are inconsistent.
"Some modules felt a bit disjointed or lacked a clear flow between topics."
"I sometimes felt the course content was a bit disorganized or information felt scattered."
"The structure could be improved for better clarity and transition between topics."
"Certain readings felt a bit out of place or hard to connect to the module's main point."
Quizzes/exams often feel tricky or unclear.
"Some quiz/exam questions were confusing or poorly worded, making it difficult to choose the correct answer."
"The tests asked for extremely specific answers from lectures rather than testing overall understanding."
"The assessments felt like they tested memorization over comprehension, which was frustrating."
"I struggled with the quiz questions being oddly phrased and difficult to interpret correctly, even when I knew the material."
"The final exam felt overly specific and tricky in its wording."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in American Deaf Culture with these
activities:
Explore the ASL University YouTube Channel
Show steps
Gain exposure to authentic ASL and enhance your understanding of Deaf culture and communication
Browse courses on
American Sign Language
Show steps
-
Subscribe to the ASL University YouTube channel
-
Watch videos on various topics related to ASL and Deaf culture
-
Practice signing along with the videos
-
Take notes on new vocabulary and grammatical structures
Read Deaf in America: Voices from a Culture
Show steps
Dive into the historical context and cultural practices of the Deaf community in America
View
Inside Deaf Culture
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book in its entirety
-
Take notes on key concepts and themes
-
Identify and analyze the experiences and perspectives shared by Deaf individuals
-
Compare and contrast the information presented in the book with what you have learned in the course
Practice ASL Vocabulary and Grammar Exercises
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of ASL and improve your signing proficiency
Browse courses on
American Sign Language
Show steps
-
Find online or offline resources for ASL practice exercises
-
Review and practice vocabulary lists
-
Work on grammar exercises to strengthen your understanding of ASL sentence structure
-
Practice signing with a partner or tutor
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Join a Deaf Culture Study Group
Show steps
Engage with fellow learners, share perspectives, and delve deeper into the nuances of Deaf culture
Show steps
-
Find or create a study group with other students taking the course or interested in Deaf culture
-
Meet regularly to discuss course materials and assigned readings
-
Engage in thoughtful discussions and exchange ideas
-
Collaborate on projects or presentations
Create a Comprehensive Course Resource Collection
Show steps
Organize and synthesize your learning materials for easy reference and future use
Show steps
-
Gather all course materials, including lecture notes, readings, assignments, and quizzes
-
Review and categorize the materials
-
Create a digital or physical filing system for easy access
-
Supplement your collection with additional resources, such as articles, videos, or websites
Contribute to Open ASL
Show steps
Make a meaningful contribution to the Deaf community while enhancing your ASL skills
Browse courses on
American Sign Language
Show steps
-
Visit the Open ASL website or GitHub repository
-
Review the existing ASL content and identify areas where you can contribute
-
Create or improve ASL signs, videos, or other resources
-
Follow the project's guidelines and contribute your work
Explore the ASL University YouTube Channel
Show steps
Gain exposure to authentic ASL and enhance your understanding of Deaf culture and communication
Browse courses on
American Sign Language
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Subscribe to the ASL University YouTube channel
- Watch videos on various topics related to ASL and Deaf culture
- Practice signing along with the videos
- Take notes on new vocabulary and grammatical structures
Read Deaf in America: Voices from a Culture
Show steps
Dive into the historical context and cultural practices of the Deaf community in America
View
Inside Deaf Culture
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book in its entirety
- Take notes on key concepts and themes
- Identify and analyze the experiences and perspectives shared by Deaf individuals
- Compare and contrast the information presented in the book with what you have learned in the course
Practice ASL Vocabulary and Grammar Exercises
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of ASL and improve your signing proficiency
Browse courses on
American Sign Language
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find online or offline resources for ASL practice exercises
- Review and practice vocabulary lists
- Work on grammar exercises to strengthen your understanding of ASL sentence structure
- Practice signing with a partner or tutor
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Join a Deaf Culture Study Group
Show steps
Engage with fellow learners, share perspectives, and delve deeper into the nuances of Deaf culture
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find or create a study group with other students taking the course or interested in Deaf culture
- Meet regularly to discuss course materials and assigned readings
- Engage in thoughtful discussions and exchange ideas
- Collaborate on projects or presentations
Create a Comprehensive Course Resource Collection
Show steps
Organize and synthesize your learning materials for easy reference and future use
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather all course materials, including lecture notes, readings, assignments, and quizzes
- Review and categorize the materials
- Create a digital or physical filing system for easy access
- Supplement your collection with additional resources, such as articles, videos, or websites
Contribute to Open ASL
Show steps
Make a meaningful contribution to the Deaf community while enhancing your ASL skills
Browse courses on
American Sign Language
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Visit the Open ASL website or GitHub repository
- Review the existing ASL content and identify areas where you can contribute
- Create or improve ASL signs, videos, or other resources
- Follow the project's guidelines and contribute your work
Career center
Learners who complete American Deaf Culture will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Interpreter for the Deaf
Interpreter for the Deaf
Interpreters for the Deaf are professionals who provide communication between Deaf and hearing people. They work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, and businesses. Interpreters for the Deaf are responsible for interpreting spoken language into sign language and vice versa. This course would be very useful for interpreters for the Deaf who want to learn more about American Deaf Culture and how to better serve their Deaf clients.
Teacher of the Deaf
Teacher of the Deaf
Teachers of the Deaf are educators who specialize in teaching deaf and hard of hearing students. They work in a variety of settings, including public schools, private schools, and residential schools. Teachers of the Deaf are responsible for providing instruction in a variety of academic subjects, as well as providing support for social and emotional development. This course would be very useful for teachers of the Deaf who want to learn more about American Deaf Culture and how to better serve their Deaf students.
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are healthcare professionals who specialize in the prevention, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of speech, language, and swallowing disorders. They work with people of all ages, from infants to the elderly. SLPs are responsible for providing a variety of services, including speech therapy, language therapy, and swallowing therapy. This course may be useful for SLPs who want to learn more about American Deaf Culture and how to better serve their Deaf patients.
Audiologist
Audiologist
Audiologists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the prevention, evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of hearing and balance disorders. They work with people of all ages, from infants to the elderly. Audiologists are responsible for providing a variety of services, including hearing tests, hearing aid fittings, and counseling. This course may be useful for audiologists who want to learn more about American Deaf Culture and how to better serve their Deaf patients.
Counselor
Counselor
Counselors provide support and guidance to people who are struggling with mental health issues. They work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, and private practice. Counselors provide a variety of services, including individual therapy, group therapy, and crisis counseling. This course may be useful for counselors who work with Deaf clients or who want to learn more about American Deaf Culture.
Social Worker
Social Worker
Social workers provide support and guidance to people who are facing challenges in their lives. They work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, and mental health clinics. Social workers provide a variety of services, including counseling, case management, and advocacy. This course may be useful for social workers who work with Deaf clients or who want to learn more about American Deaf Culture.
Psychologist
Psychologist
Psychologists provide assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for mental health disorders. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practice. Psychologists use a variety of methods to help their clients, including therapy, medication, and testing. This course may be useful for psychologists who work with Deaf clients or who want to learn more about American Deaf Culture.
Librarian
Librarian
Librarians are responsible for managing and providing access to information. They work in a variety of settings, including libraries, schools, and businesses. Librarians use their knowledge of information science and library science to help people find the information they need. This course may be useful for librarians who work with Deaf patrons or who want to learn more about American Deaf Culture.
Professor
Professor
Professors teach and conduct research at colleges and universities. They work in a variety of fields, including the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Professors use their knowledge and expertise to educate students and to advance their field of study. This course may be useful for professors who teach courses on American Deaf Culture or who want to learn more about the Deaf community.
Lawyer
Lawyer
Lawyers provide legal advice and representation to individuals and organizations. They work in a variety of settings, including law firms, corporations, and government agencies. Lawyers specialize in a variety of areas of law, including criminal law, civil law, and family law. This course may be useful for lawyers who work with Deaf clients or who want to learn more about American Deaf Culture.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
Policy analysts research, analyze, and develop public policies. They work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, think tanks, and non-profit organizations. Policy analysts use their research to inform policy decisions and to advocate for change. This course may be useful for policy analysts who work on issues related to Deafness or who want to learn more about American Deaf Culture.
Historian
Historian
Historians research, analyze, and interpret the past. They work in a variety of settings, including universities, museums, and historical societies. Historians use their research to write books, articles, and other publications. This course may be useful for historians who are interested in studying American Deaf Culture or who want to learn more about the history of the Deaf community.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists research, write, and report on current events. They work in a variety of settings, including newspapers, magazines, and television news. Journalists use their writing skills to inform the public about important issues and to hold those in power accountable. This course may be useful for journalists who cover issues related to Deafness or who want to learn more about American Deaf Culture.
Museum curator
Museum curator
Museum curators are responsible for planning and managing museum exhibitions. They work in a variety of settings, including museums, galleries, and libraries. Museum curators use their knowledge of history, art, and culture to create engaging and educational exhibitions. This course may be useful for museum curators who are interested in developing exhibitions on American Deaf Culture or who want to learn more about the Deaf community.
Archivist
Archivist
Archivists are responsible for preserving and managing historical documents and artifacts. They work in a variety of settings, including libraries, museums, and government agencies. Archivists use their knowledge of history and archival science to organize and preserve documents and artifacts for future generations. This course may be useful for archivists who are interested in preserving and managing documents related to American Deaf Culture or who want to learn more about the Deaf community.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/mnefi9/american
Reading list
We've selected 11 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
American Deaf Culture.
Comprehensive handbook on the linguistic aspects of deafness, covering topics such as sign language, spoken language, and Deaf culture.
This classic text continues to be an essential resource for students of American Sign Language and Deaf culture. It provides a comprehensive overview of the history, language, and culture of the American Deaf community, and it is written in a clear and accessible style.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of American Deaf culture, history, and language.
Classic work on American Deaf culture, providing a comprehensive overview of its history, language, and community.
Save
Provides a historical overview of American Deaf culture, from the early days of sign language to the present day.
Save
Explores the history of American Sign Language and its role in Deaf culture.
Explores the relationship between the Deaf and hearing worlds, focusing on the social, cultural, and political issues that shape their interactions.
Save
Provides a broad overview of disability studies, including a section on Deafness.
Examines the current state of Deaf education around the world, and explores future trends.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the American Deaf community and its culture, history, and values.
Save
Provides an introduction to the culture, history, and language of the Deaf community.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/mnefi9/american
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Effort
2 hours per module.
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Houston
Instructor
Terrell Brittain
Language
English
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