The Importance of Educating and Raising Awareness Among Students About the Deaf Community and Spanish Sign Language

Abstract

This study aims to assess Early Childhood Education students’ perceptions of a Spanish Sign Language (LSE) awareness workshop, as well as the knowledge acquired after the intervention. Using a mixed-methods approach, pre- and post-workshop questionnaires were administered, combining open- and closed-ended questions. The results show an improved perception of LSE as a tool for inclusion and increased awareness of the Deaf community’s reality. However, some students expressed the need for more practice to strengthen their communicative skills. This research highlights the importance of incorporating LSE training into university curricula to foster a more inclusive and culturally respectful education.