What does a bilingual-bicultural approach strive to achieve?

A bilingual-bicultural approach aims to integrate deaf culture with mainstream culture by valuing both sign language (such as American Sign Language) and the spoken/written language of the broader society. This approach fosters an environment where students can become proficient in both their native sign language and the dominant spoken language, enabling them to navigate and thrive in both cultural contexts.

By emphasizing the importance of cultural identity, this approach nurtures the social and emotional well-being of students who are deaf or hard of hearing, empowering them to appreciate their unique linguistic and cultural heritage while also equipping them with the skills necessary to interact effectively in the larger community. This duality promotes inclusion and respect for diversity, making it a crucial framework in special education for students with hearing impairments.