Sign language in the age of technology

Guests: Louise Montoya, Judy Sexton, Melissa Draganac-Hawk

Sign language has long been a vital method of communication for many people who are deaf or hard of hearing. But as a result of technology like cochlear implants, that is changing. Many people still use sign language, but other people with ‘hearing differences’ who can now hear and speak are choosing not to learn sign language. In this hour of Radio Times, guest host Mary Cummings-Jordan talks with LOUISE MONTOYA, a professional counselor at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, about children with hearing loss and the advice she gives their families. And we’ll be joined by representatives from two Philadelphia area schools to discuss the different styles of education they offer children who are deaf. JUDY SEXTON, Director of the Clarke Schools for Hearing and Speech in Philadelphia, will talk about how the school teaches children to listen and speak — but not to use sign language — and MELISSA DRAGANAC-HAWK, director of the early childhood center at The Pennsylvania School for the Deaf, will discuss the important role sign language plays at that school.

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