Qualitative analysis of caregivers’ perspectives regarding using Auslan within a Bilingual-Bicultural (Bi-Bi) approach with their children who use cochlear implants

Abstract

When caregivers decide to use Auslan within a Bilingual-Bicultural (Bi-Bi) approach with their children who use cochlear implants (CI/s), the feasibility aspect is more easily addressed for caregivers who are deaf or hard of hearing who are, themselves, fluent in Auslan. Some caregivers who have hearing within the typical range who may have no prior knowledge of Auslan also choose to use Auslan within a Bi-Bi approach. Of 168 caregivers who completed a Parental Views about Communication (PVaC) Questionnaire, 34 were identified who used Auslan within a Bi-Bi approach with their child both pre- and post-CI. This study aimed to understand the underlying themes and perspectives regarding their c..