Attitudes of parents of Hmong deaf or hard of hearing (DHH) students: An ethnographic study
Author(s):
Wathum-ocama, John C.
Format:
Thesis
Degree granted:
Ph.D.
Publisher:
Ann Arbor : University of Minnesota, 1999.
Pages:
184
Language:
English
Abstract:
The purpose of this interview study was to determine the attitudes, perceptions and feelings of parents from seven Hmong families with Deaf or Hard of Hearing (DHH) students. The study was qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory using interviewing and observation strategies as well as student records to gather first-hand information of Hmong parents, DHH students and their teachers. The multiple data set, qualitative analysis and triangulation provided a foundation from which some issues can be identified. The findings in this study indicated that many Hmong parents value education and want to be involved in their DHH children's learning. They accepted their DHH children unconditionally but had lower academic expectations of them than for their hearing daughters and sons. A majority of the parents reported limited knowledge of special education and parent rights. Communication barriers were identified as impediments to involvement in their children's education. Written communication was unanimously cited as an ineffective means of relating to Hmong parents. Most parents expressed a high degree of satisfaction with the educational programs their children attended, and that teachers and other school personnel treated them well and with respect. The results from the study further suggested that Hmong parents of DHH children would like to expand their involvement in their children's education, but need support from the school to meet that goal.