The impact of language education policies on Irish sign language in Irish deaf education

Abstract

This article will explore the impact of various language education policies and their measures on Irish Sign Language (ISL) in Irish deaf education. The focus will be on how previous and current policy decisions regarding language education have affected the use and recognition of ISL as a legitimate language in the education system. The article will discuss both deaf schools and mainstream schools. The article will briefly provide an overview of ISL's history in Ireland, including its recognition as a language in 2017 by legislation (ISL Act 2017) and the current policies regarding its use in education. The impact of these policies on the development and use of ISL in deaf education will be concisely examined, including issues of access to education, teacher training, and curriculum development. Additionally, attitudes towards ISL will be briefly examined. The article will conclude with the ongoing challenges and opportunities for improving the status of ISL in Irish deaf education through policy reform and community advocacy.