It’s no secret that technology has played a huge role in trying to connect both the hearing world and the deaf world. From inventions like the cochlear implant (a medical device that provides sound signals to the brain) to the recent Sign Aloud (gloves that can translate hand movement into text), it’s as if the hearing world is constantly taking steps in merging both cultures.
Throughout history, there has always been a mix of reactions regarding devices like the cochlear implant and SignAloud. The Deaf community has grown so much as they fought for their rights to be treated equally. Although our efforts to establish a “marriage” between both cultures are for good, it isn’t always interpreted the same way within the Deaf community. Could this disconnect mean that they don’t want to be a part of our hearing community?
Whether you answered with a yes or a no to that question, it doesn’t matter. For example, some of the members in the Deaf community prefer the cochlear implant while others are repulsed by the idea. It all has to do with personal preference and perspectives. In an insightful film, Sound and Fury, the story of a young girl is told as she is faced with the decision of getting the cochlear implant or living life without it. Her family struggles in making a final decision, because not only does this involve an intense surgery, but it also interferes with the cultural lifestyle built within the Deaf community. To our surprise, there is more than meets the eye when it comes to American Sign Language and Deaf culture. In fact, there is a whole world we know almost nothing about! The more we learn about Deaf culture, the more we can all connect in a healthier way.
With that being said, it seems like technology is our go-to comfort zone when it comes to just about anything these days. From the cochlear implant to SignAloud, we haven't even scratched the surface. Even in our day to day lives, a majority of people choose to hide behind their screens instead of making eye contact with a stranger passing by. Why? Is it because we are afraid of connection? Are we too busy to stop and smile? The same goes here. Our dependency on technology could be a factor in holding us back from our pursuit in bridging the gap between both worlds. If we truly want to help the Deaf community, then we need to understand the culture at a deeper level.
If the Deaf can learn sign language, then why can’t we? The amount of time spent in researching for technology and building new tools takes the same amount of time as learning American Sign Language. Not only will this give us a better understanding of the Deaf community, but the benefits are endless. Besides, you'll thank me when you get older and your hearing isn’t as precise!
