The Development and Education of Deaf Children
On-Line Training Module

Developer: Marc Marschark, PhD

Trainer:  No trainer needed; self-paced online computer module.

Level:  Beginning, Intermediate, Advanced

Maximum Number of Participants: individual, accommodates anyone having access to computer

Total hours: estimated? 20-24

This online, independent student course has been designed for educational interpreters, from beginners, who have just entered the field, to "old hands," who have been interpreting for many years.  It will primarily be appropriate for those who are working with children in Pre-K-12th grade, but even interpreters working in post-secondary educational settings will find much of the information interesting.  Although specific studies are rarely mentioned, the material presented integrates what we know about child development and education, in general, with the latest research findings concerning deaf children.  Some of the information presented, therefore, may be new or more detailed than was available previously.

The purpose of the course is to provide a general understanding of the development and education of deaf children, highlighting ways in which they are affected by having access to language and effective language models.  The material is organized and presented in a way that will make sense in the context of everyday activities of educational interpreters and be useful in dealing with students, teachers, school administrators, and parents.  Ways in which childrenís early environments interact with their linguistic, social, and cognitive development are considered in an effort to provide an understanding of the ways in which early experiences influence personal growth and life-long learning.  While the course cannot provide all of the information you might like about deaf children, it will provide basic information that should support everyday activities and also guide the interpreter in the search for further resources.

New York State knowledge competencies:

  • Adapting Physical Environment for Optimal Inclusion
  • Etiology of Hearing Loss
  • Educational and Social Impact of Hearing Loss
  • Advocacy
  • Child Adolescent Development
  • Psychology of Education
  • Federal Laws/Regulations



  • Follow the link below to access the online course.  You will need to enter the followinmg username and password:
    username:  interpreting
    password:  western

    Access the on-line training module now



    Page updated 05/03/01
    By Peter Brown