Reclaiming Mathematics Through ASL, Black ASL, and Deaf Ways of Knowing

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 3:45 pm - Gold 4
  In Roundtable Session: Literacy Process and Deaf Protagonism

Abstract

This roundtable explores how Deaf mathematics teachers reclaim mathematics through American Sign Language (ASL), Black ASL, and culturally rooted ways of knowing. Drawing from interviews, lesson artifacts, and classroom practices in Deaf institutions, the discussion emphasizes how linguistic and cultural strategies become tools for reasoning, advocacy, and belonging in mathematics education. Teachers and students co-construct meaning through sign language, visual discourse, and collaborative identity work, challenging deficit-based views of ability and rigor. Framed by Deaf Gain and culturally responsive teaching, this session invites participants to consider how math teaching can affirm language, culture, and community. We will reflect together on how Deaf-centered practices can inform inclusive, multimodal, and justice-oriented mathematics instruction across all learning contexts.

Authors

• Felicia Smith, Minnesota State University - Mankato

• Chalandra Gooden, Minnesota State University - Mankato