Deaf Culture and History (Lecture)




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This course introduces key aspects of Deaf Culture in the United States and the factors that define the Deaf community as a cultural minority. We will focus on awareness, cultural diversity, and the preservation of language. This course addresses the cultural identity, group norms, rules of social interaction, values, and traditions held by deaf members. Together we will explore the impact of modern technology, emerging issues, trends, and advocacy with the Deaf community. We will also address topics related to communication, terminology, educational alternatives, state and federal legislation, and community resources.

Your instructor: Matthew Cooper
Matthew Cooper is an Assistant Professor of American Sign Language at the University of Tulsa and adjunct faculty at Tulsa Community College. Born to two Deaf parents, Cooper grew up a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) in a family who were leaders and active participants in the Deaf community. In 2025, Cooper was a TEDx Editor’s Pick for his TEDx Talk titled Between Two Worlds: A CODA’s Perspective. He is currently writing a book about the modern CODA experience.

Class Dates and Time: Thursdays, July 9 through August 13
2pm Pacific | 3pm Mountain | 4pm Central | 5pm Eastern
Each session is 90 minutes. 
 
 Class schedule: Live lecture will take place on Thursdays via ZOOM 
  • 7/9/2026
  • 7/16/2026
  • 7/23/2026
  • 7/30/2026
  • 8/6/2026
  • 8/13/2026

June 30, 2026, 1pm Central is the Osher Online Member Orientation.

Class Details

6 Session(s)
Weekly - Thu

Location
Virtual - Any Location

Instructor
Osher Online 

Tuition: 

$70.00

Email olli@northwestern.edu for more information. Send to Friend »

Schedule Information

Date(s) Class Days Times Location Instructor(s)
7/9/2026 - 8/13/2026 Weekly - Thu 04:00 PM - 05:30 PM N/A, Virtual - Any Location  Map Osher Online 

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