Comparison of university Sign language study options in the Czech Republic, Australia and New Zealand
Abstract
The main topic of the paper is the possibilities of higher education in sign language in the
Czech Republic, Australia, and New Zealand. Th e primary focus is on introducing all the universities and the courses off ered, with an emphasis also on presenting the most signifi cant diff erences in the organisation of teaching. In the introduction, important aspects infl uencing the shape of tertiary education in the respective countries are mentioned, including the historical development of deaf education, the emergence and development of sign languages and national legislation, deaf education today, and the education systems of the Czech Republic, Australia, and New Zealand. Th e text focuses mainly on the diff erences in the national qualifi cation frameworks, credit systems, university off erings, and the organisation of teaching in diff erent disciplines. None of the fi elds of study that are analysed omits the interpretation of linguistic, cultural, or historical characteristics of sign languages, and theoretical teaching is complemented by work experience in various institutions and educational establishments. On the basis of these facts, it can be concluded that, despite the diff erences in the organisation of the studies, the disciplines in focus are comparable in content and scope. Finally, the concept of peer learning support, which is not yet implemented at Czech universities, is presented.