For more information and to view sources referenced in the episode, please visit my Capstone paper here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uS-MDOWdWn73mUlNVwzSCyW18jE8AxFbAUEXzKq5DME/edit?usp=sharing

Sources discussed in this episode include work by DeLana et al. on bilingual ASL education, research on Deaf education in Brazil by Fronza and colleagues, and studies on Deaf learning environments in Kenya by Adoyo, Maina, and Kimani.

In this episode, we explore how American Sign Language instruction can evolve through learner-centered teaching practices. The discussion examines current challenges in ASL education and proposes a community-connected instructional model that includes digital portfolios, authentic assessments, and annual capstone projects. Research on learner-centered education, culturally relevant pedagogy, and language acquisition supports this innovative approach.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode

The full APA reference list for the sources discussed in this episode can be accessed here:

APA Reference List: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1RZ65eOijmiiOjeijCiWasjqSLRm5nWilXjNWU-EOZjQ/edit?usp=sharing

Carvalho, M. P., & Pinto, A. S. (2024). Public education policies for Deaf students in Brazil: Challenges and inclusion in the school environment.

DeLana, M., Gentry, M. A., & Andrews, J. (2007). The efficacy of ASL/English bilingual education: Considering public schools. American Annals of the Deaf, 152(1), 73–87.

Kimani, C. W. (2012). Teaching Deaf learners in Kenyan classrooms.

Lillo-Martin, D., Chen Pichler, D., & Gale, E. (2025). Language and cognitive development in bimodal bilingual Deaf children in hearing families: Three case studies. Behavioral Sciences, 15(8).

Teixeira, W. D., & Stieler, P. (2024). Deaf education: The bilingual linguistic environment as a perspective for bilingual education.

Wawire, T. M., & Namunga, N. (2019). Influence of pupils’ interpretation of Kenyan Sign Language on academic performance.