Exploring Community Cultural Wealth in Deaf Community College Students

• In Event: 31.093 - Sheraton Roundtable Three - Osgoode Ballroom
  In Roundtable Session: 31.093-1 - Success for Students With Disabilities in Higher Education

Abstract

Individuals who are culturally Deaf reject the notion that their audiological status is a deficit. Rather, they view themselves as a distinct cultural and linguistic minority. Their unique intersectional background and experiences influence how they navigate and understand their higher education experience. Fifty-four point five percent of Deaf college students attend community college, but there is limited research on those students within the community college system. Using Deaf Community Cultural Wealth as an analytical framework, this study examines Deaf students’ experiences and strengths that contribute to their success at community colleges. The results show that participants utilized various forms of community cultural wealth capital, which is shown through their self-advocacy, value of interdependence, and attitude of determination.

Author

• Serena Johnson, California State University - Fresno