The International Day of Sign Languages and the International Day of the Deaf at MASU
The International Day of Sign Languages and the International Day of the Deaf at MASU
Students of Murmansk Arctic State University took part in 'Hear me and understand me' workshop to celebrate the International Day of Sign Languages and the International Day of the Deaf.
Olesya Santashova, Senior Lecturer of Psychology and Pedagogy for Special Needs Department, organized the event. During the workshop, students learnt about dactylology (from Latin daktylos ‘finger'), tried to formulate statements with its help, debunked myths about hearing organs, participated in a quiz, as well as discovered sign-singing and alternative forms of communication.
'When students work together in such a warm atmosphere, they have an opportunity to show their organizational skills, engage into social activities and gain invaluable experience,' said Elena Golishnikova, mentor of «Equal Opportunities» Student Association. 'Such events promote an inclusive culture in the university and society, form new life and professional skills, and show the correct way of communicating with people with special needs. This is one more step toward becoming a real expert,' Elena added.
Besides the workshop, students also posted a quiz in VKontakte. The winner got a mug with the logo of «Equal Opportunities» Association.
MASU «Equal Opportunities» Student Association implements significant projects by promoting an inclusive environment at the university and in the region. As part of the association's activities, students interact with children with special needs.
For reference:
The International Day of Sign Languages is celebrated on September 23, and the International Day of the Deaf is celebrated every last Sunday of September. Various events are held to support the deaf, protect their rights, improve the quality of life and raise public awareness. Thirteen million people in Russia have hearing problems, says the National Society of the Deaf. According to the World Health Organization, almost 2.5 billion people in the world will have serious hearing problems by 2050.