How Sign Language Contributes to Our Understanding of Linguistic Diversity

Join a Deaf-E3 webinar presented by linguists, Dr. Deanna Gagne and Ms. Pamela Decker-Wright of Gallaudet University’s School of Language, Education, and Culture. This webinar will explore the definition of "language" from the perspective of language science or linguistics and the differences between naturally emerging languages, communication systems, and invented language systems. The presenters will offer perspectives within the framework of deaf communities and language acquisition for deaf children as they apply these concepts and how naturally emerging languages contribute to cognitive development and success in education.

Led by Gallaudet University, Deaf-E3 is a USAID-supported activity that addresses the educational disparities and marginalization faced by deaf, hard of hearing, and deafblind children and youth in Nigeria. This seminar is a part of the Deaf-E3 focus area four to increase the capacity of USAID and its partners to engage with deaf, hard of hearing, and deafblind stakeholders nationwide.