Frequently Asked Questions
We answer common questions related to Donations, Understanding Deafness and Communication, Sign Language, Technology and Accessibility, Perspectives on Deafness, and Interacting with Deaf Individuals and the Community
Donations
Donations
DEAFinition is a registered NPC and Public Benefit Organization. We can issue Section 18a certificates for any donations. This means that you don’t have to pay tax on any donated amount, and the Deaf community reap the reward for your generosity.
Please enquire directly to info@edeafinition.co.za
Interacting with Deaf Individuals and the Community
How can I communicate effectively with a Deaf person?
Respect the Deaf person’s preferred method of communication. If they use SASL, learn some basic signs. Maintain eye contact. Use gestures or pen and paper. Keep calm and keep trying.
Perspectives on Deafness
Can all Deaf people learn to speak?
Not all Deaf people can learn to speak. Whether or not they learn depends on if they attend speech therapy and the mode of communication they choose to use. For those who choose to be oral, learning to speak is a priority. For those who choose to use Sign Language, learning to speak is not a priority.
How do Deaf persons learn to speak?
Deaf people can learn to speak by attending speech therapy. Assistive devices like hearing aids and cochlear implants can also help in the quest to attain clear speech.
Do all Deaf people want to be “cured” of their deafness?
Deaf individuals have diverse views on deafness. Some embrace their identity and culture, while others may seek technologies like cochlear implants. The concept of “curing” deafness is subjective and varies from person to person.
Sign Language
What is a sign name?
A Sign Name is a specific name given by a member of the Deaf Community. It reflects an individual’s character, a mannerism they are known for, or an aspect of their physical appearance. It may also include the first letter of their name. No two people typically have the same Sign Name. While there may be many people in the world with the same written or spoken name, Sign Names are unique.
If I know the Sign Language alphabet, can I communicate in Sign Language?
The Sign Language alphabet is a tiny part of Sign Language that is used as a bridge between signed and written language. Although it is helpful, the alphabet cannot be used as a substitute for real Signs. Deaf individuals generally use fingerspelling to spell out words that don’t have Signs, the names of people or places, or for clarity.
How long does it take to learn SASL?
It can take between 3 months to 3 years to gain a solid working skill in SASL. If practiced regularly and the student is open to learning new Signs and dialects, SASL can remain a lifelong learning experience.
Are all Deaf individuals proficient in Sign Language?
No, not all Deaf individuals use Sign Language, and proficiency varies. Some may use other communication methods, such as lipreading or written communication, depending on factors like the age of onset of deafness and personal preferences.
Is South African Sign Language (SASL) the same everywhere?
No, sign languages are distinct and vary globally. SASL is used primarily in South Africa, and other countries may have their own sign languages, such as British Sign Language (BSL) or Auslan in Australia. SASL also has a few different dialects. You can see differences based on where an individual learned to Sign.
Technology and Accessibility
How do Deaf people enjoy music or movies?
Deaf individuals experience music through vibrations, visual cues, and sometimes by feeling the beat. Subtitles or Sign Language interpretation make movies accessible for Deaf audiences.
Can Deaf people drive?
Yes, Deaf individuals can drive. Driving ability is not solely dependent on hearing. Many Deaf people use visual and tactile cues to navigate and follow traffic rules.
Are cochlear implants a “cure” for deafness?
Cochlear implants are not a cure for deafness but a technological intervention that can provide some individuals with access to sound. Opinions on cochlear implants vary within the Deaf community, and some individuals choose not to use them.
Understanding Deafness and Communication
Are all Deaf people part of the same community
Deaf individuals may share common experiences but come from diverse backgrounds. Some Deaf people identify strongly with Deaf culture, while others may not. The degree of connection to the Deaf community varies.
Do all Deaf people read lips?
Not all Deaf individuals rely on lipreading, and its effectiveness varies. Lipreading can be challenging and is influenced by factors such as the speaker’s clarity, environment, and the individual’s proficiency in lipreading.
How do Deaf people communicate?
Deaf individuals use various communication methods, including Sign Language, lipreading, writing, and other text-based communication. The method depends on individual preferences, cultural background, and the degree of hearing loss.