Is Total Communication Enough?: The Hidden Curriculum

The structure of curriculum is based on subjects of value and importance to society. Curricular plans for deaf students include the study of English, but not of American Sign Language (ASL). This omission suggests a lack of recognition of ASL as a language and as the communication system of deaf people. Every program for deaf students should include ASL in its requirements. Such emphasis could have a profound effect on students' self-concept and academic success.