Dutch deaf Community in the picture (DIP)
Who are deaf, hard of hearing, and deafblind users of Dutch Sign Language (NGT)? How do they experience the use of NGT as one of their preferred languages, and what barriers might they encounter? The research project ‘Dutch Deaf community in the picture’ aims to answer these and other questions.
Objective
The project aims to map the different needs, preferences and challenges of DHH and DB NGT-users. A better understanding of the demographic composition and specific needs of DSB and DB NGT-users will enable more effective tailoring of policies for this target group.
Due to the legal recognition of Dutch Sign Language (2021), the Dutch government is required to promote the use of NGT. More research is needed to do this in a data-driven way.
Results
Gaining a better understanding of the group of deaf, hard of hearing, and deafblind people in the Netherlands for whom NGT is one of their preferred languages, in areas such as:
- Education
- Work
- Use of digital and AI-driven technologies
- Social networks
- Health and access to healthcare
- Mobility
- Leisure activities
Duration
01 October 2024 - 01 June 2026
Approach
We are collecting data through a bilingual online questionnaire (Dutch and Dutch Sign Language) and interviews with a diverse group of deaf, hard of hearing, and deafblind NGT users. This data will form the basis for policy and practice recommendations. At the end of the project, a concluding symposium will be organized.
Impact for education
The results provide a data-driven understanding of the Dutch deaf community, creating a stronger foundation for the education of NGT-Dutch interpreters, notetakers, and NGT teachers. Additionally, this information can offer policymakers and practitioners data-driven insights into the target group they focus on, contributing to more effective and tailored measures in practice.
Co-finance
Co-financing by the Foundation Vrienden van Effatha
