Parents' Perspectives on Center-Based Services for Their Child Who Is Deaf/Hard of Hearing

• In Event: Research on the Education of Deaf Persons SIG (#95) Paper Session

Abstract

Under federal law, children who are deaf/hard of hearing and their parents can receive their early intervention services in-home or in a center-based program. This study examined parents’ perspectives on the early intervention center-based services they received for their child(ren) from birth to three years of age. Additionally, parents’ understanding and use of listening and spoken language strategies was explored. At present, the researchers have participated in bi-yearly focus groups with the enrolled families. These focus groups were transcribed using a professional transcription service. Using a thematic analysis approach (Strauss & Corwin, 1990), several themes emerged from the data. Results and implications will be shared.

Authors

• Ronda Rufsvold, Teachers College, Columbia University

• Elaine Smolen, Teachers College, Columbia University

• Maria C. Hartman, Teachers College, Columbia University