School Science Programs for Hearing-Impaired Students

The purpose of this study was to survey the state-of-the-art of science education for deaf individuals in residential schools in the United States. Forty-seven schools for the deaf were sampled to obtain a representative description of science program materials in use for students aged 2-14. Of the schools studied, more than 20% had no planned science program. Of the schools that did have a science program: (a) 60% used low student activity curriculum material, (b) 57% used curriculum materials which were not modified for use with deaf students, and (c) science teaching and evaluation strategies of all schools were infrequently modified to meet deaf student needs. Based on this pattern of use, it was concluded that a majority of the sampled residential schools were not providing a science program which met the needs and capabilities of the deaf student. Processes which may help improve science education for deaf students include systematic analysis of curricula according to student needs and capabilities as well as guidelines for science education.