Inclusion of Signing Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing Students: Factors That Facilitate Versus Challenge Access and Participation

Purpose Past studies have consistently indicated a need for improvements in inclusive educational practices. Many have focused on a single actor (e.g., the student), not taking into account the interactive nature of communication. Method A qualitative study, involving multiple participants in two subject area general education high school classrooms, was completed to examine factors that promote versus challenge deaf or hard-of-hearing (DHH) students' access to communication and participation in classroom activities. Participants included four classroom teachers, two sign language interpreters, and three DHH students who used sign language as their primary mode of communication. Data consisted of eight 60- to 75-min in-class observations, two interviews, and three questionnaires. Data were analyzed using a participation framework of interaction as coordinated linguistic and nonlinguistic actions between multiple actors. Results Despite the availability of technological tools and sign language interpretation, DHH students had inconsistent access to classroom communication and lower participation than their hearing peers. Conclusions The results correspond to those of past studies, which suggest a research-to-practice gap that needs to be addressed if we are to see improvements in inclusive practices, particularly for students who use signed communication. Several recommendations are proposed in consideration of teacher, interpreter, and student as integral participants. Speech-language pathologists can participate in assessing whether inclusive education is meeting desired results and contribute to the development and implementation of necessary adaptations. Future studies are needed to systematically examine the efficacy of specific education and training programs.