Glossary

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Language Immersion

An approach to language learning in which the learner is surrounded by and continuously exposed to the target language in natural, meaningful contexts rather than through isolated instruction. In the context of deaf education and accessibility, language immersion is critical…

Langue des Signes Québécoise(also: LSQ, Quebec Sign Language)

The sign language used by the Deaf community in francophone Quebec and in francophone Deaf communities elsewhere in Canada. LSQ is a distinct natural language with its own grammar, lexicon, and cultural tradition — not a signed version of French — and developed historically from…

Libras(also: Brazilian Sign Language, Língua Brasileira de Sinais)

The official sign language of the Deaf community in Brazil, recognized by Brazilian federal law (Law No. 10.436/2002) as a legitimate means of communication and expression. Libras has its own grammar, syntax, and linguistic structure distinct from spoken Brazilian Portuguese. It…

Linguistic Imperialism(also: Language Imperialism)

The imposition of one language or language modality over others, often by dominant groups over minority language communities. In deaf contexts, linguistic imperialism manifests when spoken language is privileged over sign language, such as forcing deaf individuals to use…

Linguistic Minority(also: Language Minority)

A group whose primary language differs from the dominant language of the surrounding society, often placing them at a disadvantage in education, employment, civic participation, and access to information. Deaf sign language users are frequently described as a linguistic and…

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