While reading the text, I noticed how many things virtual communities can offer to a student like Lindsay. Being text-based, Lindsay can easily follow along with conversation and communication. People are more likely to engage in these conversations and community (because of that sense of anonymity)than face-to-face interactions. This will be especially good so that Lindsay can communicate and interact with hearing students who may feel awkward trying to interact with her. There are many great forms of CAI that would be highly beneficial to her (183-4), such as having syllabi, papers, and events all online well in advance so that Lindsay can actually prepare and get things squared away with the Office of Disability Services, if she does need an interpreter. Technology also allows Lindsay to really maneuver and get information without physically having to go out and find information and interact with only hearing people.
Other forms of technology, which I actually address several, several posts ago include being able to connect with roommates and classmates beforehand, which would be helpful in preparing them for interaction with her and having honest conversation. Something that I never thought about before was the protection that these virtual communities can provide to Lindsay. She would never have to reveal to anyone that she is deaf. She would in fact only be judged on what she thought and had to say, which protects her from any negative stereotypes that might exist about DHH students. It also gives her the ability to interact, communicate with, and learn from a wide variety of people she may not have had the chance to do so before. It could also be the “connector” that helps her invite other people in, or let her into others community to help her assimilate more with mainstream, instead of feeling relegated to only the Deaf community, if that’s not what she wants.
One of Bowling Green’s own counselors has researched and published an article regarding d/Deaf internet usage in order to build community. She refers to DeafBlogLand, a network of blogs that share news, opinions, and media. There is also DeafRead and alldeaf.com, more blog related or discussion forum websites. These websites really allow Deaf communities to span across actual distance and time. Even if Lindsay chose to not become involved in Columbus’ Deaf community because of time constraint or lack of transportation, she could still feel connected via blog and internet. The blogs help to promote qualities of Deaf culture, while also providing a sense of empowerment.
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