The Odyssey of Deaf Epistemology: A Search for Meaning-Making

Am Ann Deaf. 2019;164(3):395-422. doi: 10.1353/aad.2019.0017.

Abstract

Deaf epistemology made a crucial contribution to an understanding of a Deaf worldview, yet did not quite encompass the "D/deaf experience." It started the conversation but seemingly stalled. In an expansion on earlier studies of Deaf epistemology, the researchers considered the question "What does it mean to be D/deaf?" D/deaf participants submitted narratives that were analyzed for common themes via grounded theory research methodology. Six open codes were identified: school, cultural capital, deficit/The Struggle, difference/empowerment, accessibility/technology, hearing technology. These themes were captured by two axial codes: journey and sense of belonging. The core category was determined to be situated homecoming, reflecting the apex of a long, frustrating journey. In a transition from a largely etic to an emic exploration of Deaf epistemology, new insights were developed about what it means to be D/deaf, as well as a new way of theorizing about Deaf epistemology.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Communication*
  • Deafness / rehabilitation*
  • Hearing / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Knowledge*
  • Persons With Hearing Impairments / rehabilitation*
  • Research Design*