In this course, students will develop a basic understanding of critical social justice principles—access, equity, participation, and human rights—as it relates to the Deaf community. Students will learn foundational skills in using the bilingual-bicultural social justice framework to explore topics and issues related to the language spectrum, Deaf education, audism, and challenges facing Deaf families within the Deaf community. Students will also self-reflect to foster an awareness of their own identities as they engage with the Deaf community.
Prerequisites
Course type
This course is offered as part of a VCC program and cannot be taken individually.
International students: Eligibility is determined at the program level. Visit the program page for international student requirements and application information.
- 1. Social Justice Framework a. Advocate vs. Ally b. Characteristics of allyship c. Bicultural-bilingual framework
- 2. Communication Skills a. Principles of communication & active listening b. Language spectrum: VGC, ASL, SEE, contact sign c. Simultaneous communication (sim com) d. Technological advancements for deaf community: benefits and challenges e. Internal and external barriers to communication
- 3. Understanding Audism a. Historical impact of 1889 Milan conference, audism and oralism b. Cultural vs. Audist views of deafness c. BC's newborn hearing screening & early intervention resources
- 4. Advancing Deaf Rights a. Assessment of programs & services in BC b. Mental health services and legal interfacing c. Relevant legislation: Canadian Charter, Accessibility Act, UN conventions d. Advocacy issues: VRS, recognition of sign languages
- 5. Educational Placement Options a. Comparison of K-12 Options: Mainstreaming, Specialized Programs, BC School for the Deaf
Course schedules
Select your program to see the available course schedules.
| CRN# | Duration | Delivery | Location | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 73017 |
September 8, 2026 to December 15, 2026 |
Lecture | VCC Broadway Building A | See full schedule | |
| 73023 |
September 8, 2026 to December 15, 2026 |
Lecture | VCC Broadway Building A | See full schedule |
Online courses listed without scheduled meeting times can be completed on your own schedule. All self-paced courses have on-campus tests. Off-site certified invigilation centres may be used at the student's expense.
How to take this course
This course is offered as part of a VCC program only.
Contact us
If you have any questions, please email at [email protected].
† This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.