What is the core principle of the bilingual-bicultural (Bi-Bi) model in Deaf education?

What is the core principle of the bilingual-bicultural (Bi-Bi) model in Deaf education?

• A. Deaf students learn ASL as a first language and develop English literacy through a bilingual approach within Deaf culture.
• B. Emphasizes oral-only education for Deaf students.
• C. Excludes sign language in educational settings.
• D. Treats Deafness as a medical condition with no cultural context.

Answer: (A)

ASL is treated as a natural first language for Deaf students, and English literacy is cultivated through a bilingual approach set within Deaf culture. In this model, instruction often happens in sign language, giving full access to ideas, content, and classroom interaction, while English is explicitly taught to develop reading and writing skills. The bicultural aspect means students learn not only language but also the cultural norms, stories, and community of Deaf culture, fostering a sense of identity and belonging. The goal is for students to become fluent in both languages and to use them together effectively, rather than prioritizing speech alone or minimizing sign language. This approach contrasts with oral-only education or settings that exclude sign language, and it moves away from viewing Deafness purely as a medical condition without cultural context.

ASL is treated as a natural first language for Deaf students, and English literacy is cultivated through a bilingual approach set within Deaf culture. In this model, instruction often happens in sign language, giving full access to ideas, content, and classroom interaction, while English is explicitly taught to develop reading and writing skills. The bicultural aspect means students learn not only language but also the cultural norms, stories, and community of Deaf culture, fostering a sense of identity and belonging. The goal is for students to become fluent in both languages and to use them together effectively, rather than prioritizing speech alone or minimizing sign language. This approach contrasts with oral-only education or settings that exclude sign language, and it moves away from viewing Deafness purely as a medical condition without cultural context.