20 Jul 2006

UCC hosts Summer School for Deaf and hard of hearing students



From 29 August to 1 September, UCC will be home to the second Summer School for Deaf and hard of hearing students entering any third level institution nationally.  The Summer School is part of the national Deaf Needs Assessment (DNA) project funded by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) (Strategic Initiatives Scheme) to increase the numbers of Deaf and hard of hearing students in third level education in Ireland.

Last year the first Summer School was held in Trinity College Dublin (TCD). According to Shirley Flanagan, UCC's Advisor to Students with Sensory Disabilities: "UCC is delighted to host the School this year. A variety of lectures and workshops, presented in both Irish Sign Language and Speed Text, will provide students with ways of dealing with the challenges of third level education in addition to providing an opportunity to meet other students and form friendships of mutual interest. Access to third level education for students with disabilities has improved enormously in recent years.  Indeed, since 2001 the participation of Deaf and hard of hearing students registered in UCC has increased by over 125%, with students participating in various degree programmes including Engineering, Commerce, Science and Arts."

The three day event will begin with two Deaf/hard of hearing students from UCC and TCD relating their personal experiences. How to Work with an ISL Interpreter and Student life, clubs and grants are just two among the many other lectures and workshops offered to participants of the summer school.  Accommodation at the School is provided with the cost being covered by the DNA Project.

See www.tcd.ie/disability

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