Cognitive Coaching Deaf Participant
I recently completed days 1–4 of Cognitive Coaching, which included a deaf participant, and I wanted to share my experience for anyone wondering how to best support someone in a seminar. Going in, I was nervous and uncertain about how he would be able to fully engage in the experiential learning. By the end of day one, I realized my assumptions were wrong.
The district provided two excellent interpreters, and I also used PowerPoint’s closed caption feature. The participant not only engaged fully but was one of the most outstanding participants I’ve ever worked with. The interpreters were incredible, and the other participants went out of their way to partner with him and provide support. The experience also pushed me to communicate more clearly for the interpreters, which strengthened my own presenting.
If you have a similar experience ahead, I’d be happy to chat and answer any questions.
Hi John. Years ago Bob and I co-facilitated a large group where one participant, a superintendent who was deaf and mute was present. He too had two interpreters. Over the four days we had delightful conversations with him and some wonderful conversations with the interpreters. In remember we asked the interpreters two questions.
First, why do you continue to sign when he is not looking at you? Ha! They said, 'Sometimes you take a break, heck, do you always listen to people!"
Second, why are there two of you? One responded, 'would you want to listen to one person for 4 days!'
We loved it and had a wonderful time.