Communication Philosophy
I
became deaf at the age of three from Spinal Meningitis. Enrolled in
mainstreamed schools, I learned to sign Exact English. By the time I was
in middle school, I learned a little American Sign Language. During my
undergraduate years at Gallaudet University, I had the opportunity to socialize
with the deaf community and improve my ASL skills.
I
believe that there is no one way of communication for everyone who has a hearing
loss, it depends on the needs of the individuals. If someone has residual
hearing, maybe oral communication is more appropriate. On the other hand,
someone who is profoundly deaf would benefit better from Total Communication or
ASL. Every individual is unique and should be able to communicate in any
way possible.
