Using research to improve literacy practice and practice to improve literacy research

Area of Science:

• Deaf Education
• Literacy Studies
• Special Education

Background:

• The disconnect between research findings and practical application in deaf education is a persistent challenge.
• Improving literacy outcomes for deaf students requires better integration of research into practice and vice versa.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the reasons for the limited impact of research on literacy practices in deaf education.
• To identify strategies for fostering a professional environment where research and practice inform each other.

Main Methods:

• This article adopts a multi-disciplinary perspective, drawing from literacy, special education, and deaf education fields.
• It analyzes the underlying issues contributing to the research-practice gap.

Main Results:

• The impact of research on literacy practices for deaf students remains relatively insignificant.
• Key issues contributing to this disconnection are explored across the relevant academic disciplines.

Conclusions:

• Addressing the research-practice gap is crucial for advancing literacy instruction for deaf learners.
• A collaborative approach integrating research and practice is essential for future progress in deaf education.