New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) is one of the country’s official languages, alongside Te Reo Māori and English (de facto). While it’s mainly used by the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) community, it has a lot to offer hearing students and school communities as a whole. Dr Denise Powell, Executive Principal from Ko Taku Reo Deaf Education New Zealand explains how introducing NZSL in mainstream classrooms can make a big difference for everyone involved.
Creating Inclusive Schools With NZSL
Denise shares how learning NZSL helps create more inclusive school environments. Programs like the NZSL@School service allow DHH students to communicate more effectively and fully take part in school life. “Learning NZSL has positively impacted school communities and individual students by fostering inclusivity and enhancing communication,” she says. At the same time, hearing students learning NZSL develop new skills and contribute to building a stronger sense of connection. “NZSL is a language that can enhance both hearing and Deaf children’s access to the curriculum.”
“It promotes empathy, cultural awareness, and the ability to communicate with a broader range of individuals, fostering a more inclusive environment,” she explains. “In the classroom, NZSL enhances authentic communication between Deaf and hearing peers by providing a common language, reducing misunderstandings, and encouraging collaboration. This shared mode of communication helps build stronger relationships and mutual respect among students.”
That said, there are some challenges to making NZSL a regular part of the curriculum. Denise highlights the shortage of qualified NZSL teachers and resistance from those who don’t fully understand its value. However, resources like TeachSign and support from organisations like Ko Taku Reo can help schools overcome these obstacles. Denise mentions that it would be a step forward if there were an acknowledgement that NZSL is an official language and resources provided to support that in schools.
How Schools Can Start Embracing NZSL in the Classroom
Some schools have already had great success with NZSL. Denise mentions an example from the Education Gazette in 2022, where a school integrated NZSL into its everyday activities, helping both DHH and hearing students thrive. Programs like NZSL@School have also been praised for supporting DHH students in mainstream schools. For schools looking to get started, she suggests using resources from TeachSign, working with Ko Taku Reo, and offering professional development for staff. She also recommends reaching out to local Deaf communities for guidance and support.
There are also some common misconceptions about NZSL. Some people think it’s only useful for Deaf students or that it’s too difficult for hearing students to learn. Denise disagrees, saying, “NZSL is accessible to all learners and offers cognitive and social benefits to hearing students as well. Learning NZSL enhances communication skills and broadens cultural understanding. These benefits are valuable in diverse and interconnected societies.”
Ko Taku Reo currently supports 4,000 DHH students across New Zealand, along with their families and schools. Expanding NZSL in classrooms could benefit even more students, helping to bridge the gap between Deaf and hearing communities. Denise’s insights show that NZSL is a way to create stronger connections and make schools more welcoming for everyone.
