2022 Early Hearing Detection & Intervention Virtual Conference
March 13 - 15, 2022
Perspectives: Idaho Audiology and the Deaf Community
Historically, audiologists and the Deaf
community have different perspectives regarding hearing loss. Currently, little research exists which examines the interactions between these two groups. The purpose of this research was to examine the knowledge and interactions between audiologists and Deaf community members in Idaho. The hypothesis stated that interactions are diminished by poor communication and cultural understanding. Data obtained demonstrated a rift had formed between the two groups, caused by distrust, misinformation, feelings of
oppression and not being listened to, and the encouragement of technology when it has provided little benefit. However, a path of change is available. The relationship between audiologists and the Deaf Community can be made stronger by increasing the exchange of accurate information, involvement in community activities or advocacy, and being willing to listen and improve cultural awareness.
- Learn the history between audiology and the Deaf Community
- Learn the current status of interactions between audiology and the Deaf Community in Idaho
- Increase cultural awareness and determine ways to improve interactions between both groups
Poster:
3353554_14841RebeccaSieruga.pdf
Presenter: Mary Whitaker
Dr. Mary M. Whitaker is a clinical professor at Idaho State University (ISU). She has been an audiologist for over 30 years. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Speech and Hearing Science from University of Utah, a Master of Science in Hearing Science at University of Arizona, and Educational Specialist in Special Education from Idaho State University, and a Doctor of Audiology degree from the University of Florida. Currently, she teaches coursework in educational audiology, genetics for health care professionals, and counseling in audiology. She is a clinical supervisor, the Externship Coordinator and the Program Director in Audiology. In her early career she worked in a rural outreach program providing audiological services to public health, migrant headstart, preschools and headstart programs. She was employed by the Pocatello, ID school district as an educational audiologist. Currently, she works in the ISU Hearing Clinic where she sees infants through adults.
ASHA DISCLOSURE:
Financial -
Nonfinancial -
Rebecca Sieruga is a fourth year graduate student at Idaho State University working on her Au.D. She did her undergraduate work at Idaho State University where she graduated in 2018 with an Honors Bachelors of Science (B.S.) in Communication Sciences and Disorders and an AS in Sign Language Studies. Her undergraduate Honors Thesis was titled The Current Status of Idaho Audiologists’ Knowledge of the Deaf Community and Culture. She has worked with California Department of Rehabilitation Youth Leadership Forum for the past several years. Rebecca would like to use her education to work with children who have hearing or other communication disabilities.
ASHA DISCLOSURE:
Financial -
No relevant financial relationship exist.
Nonfinancial -
No relevant nonfinancial relationship exist.