Pedagogy

Rhoades, E., Perusse, M., Douglas, W.M.,  Zarate, C. (2008) conducted a research on how to enable children with hearing difficulties to learn a second language. This research lies on the premise that bilingualism is highly desired given the advantages of speaking more than one language for a childs future.

Two centers for the deaf that offers bilingual programs were assessed in terms of their success in teaching a second language even to children with hearing problems of loss. These centers are the Montreal Oral School for the Deaf and the Houston Center for Hearing and Speech. Results showed it is possible for children to learn a second language as long as children are able to access appropriate hearing prosthesis, develop as strong listening and speech perception skills, and are given evidence-based language intervention strategies as well as center-based therapy session with parents involvement.

The primary authors of this research are all professionals in the field of language development for children. Wm.Michael Douglas is directors if the speech-language pathology clinic at the Center for Hearing and Speech in Houston, Texas. Martha Parusse is the principal of the Montreal Oral School for the Deaf in Montreal, Quebec. Ellen Rhoades is an international consultant, mentor and lecturer for professionals, families and programs of the Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf.
 
This research is intended for speech-pathology practitioners and professionals working on the field of language development. This research aims for professionals to be more efficient in dealing with children with hearing problems, for them to be able to learn not just their native language but also a second language.