National Survey - 2002
A survey was conducted in 2002 to investigate the needs of NZSL tutors throughout New Zealand, with a 58.7% response rate. 61 people answered the survey. Findings from the survey reveal that:
- The average NZSL Tutor is a female (72.1%), Pakeha (80.3%), Deaf (90.2%), belong to the age group of 30 - 44 years old (60.7%) and living in Auckland (47.5%).
- 62.3% of respondents are currently teaching NZSL. 86.6% of respondents have taught at level one, 45.9% at level two and 23% at level three. 47.5% of respondents have taught NZSL for a period of five or more years.
- 50.8% of respondents report that they are and have taught at community education night classes, followed by 21.3% having done private tuition. The remainder teach at the Deaf Education Centres, universities, polytechs, Colleges of Education, Deaf Clubs, Deaf Association, Marae and from home.
- 45.9% of respondents have completed Certificate in Deaf Studies: Teaching NZSL from Victoria University of Wellington and 42.6% have attended NZSLTA workshops at least once or more.
- Further training as NZSL tutors were requested from 80.3% of respondents. More than half asked for training in linguistics, assessment, curriculum and using teaching materials. 44.3% wanted advanced training to teach level 3 classes.
- 82% of respondents have used USA Signing Naturally curriculum and 80.4% are satisfied with the curriculum that they use. However, 67.2% would like to have more local curriculum produced to follow, with a focus on NZSL base assessment (23%). This may be adapted from the USA curriculum.
- 59% of all tutors use NZSL Video Units 1-6 as a teaching resource in class. 47.5% requested the development of Video Units 7-12 and 54% wanted to have Storytelling Video Units 1-6. Accompanying teaching and assessment resources were also identified as a need.
- 52.5% of respondents are members of NZSLTA and 23% are former members. 8.2% of non-members are not aware of NZSLTA.
Major recommendations to the NZSLTA are:
- Look beyond Auckland.
- Improve the running of the organisation through employing a Coordinator/Administrator.
- Standardise curriculum and resources through employing a Resources and Curriculum Coordinator.
- Provide more training and programmes for tutors through employing a Training and Development Coordinator.
- Improve the image of the organisation with increased publicity and promotion.
- Adapt a new membership system relating to qualifications.
The survey was done by Sara Pivac, former National Administrator. Survey findings have greatly influenced the shaping of strategic plans and how NZSLTA strives to improve itself as an organisation, both internal and external.
Your feedback, ideas, or thoughts are always welcome.
