Cochlear Implants
A cochlear implant is a surgically implanted device that electrically stimulates the hearing nerve in the cochlea (inner ear). This stimulation is designed to allow individuals with severe to profound hearing loss to perceive sound.
The core values of Deaf culture emphasize pride in Deaf diversity. Efforts to surgically "fix" deafness is considered unacceptable to most culturally Deaf Americans. Being Deaf is an identity, not a pathology.
National Association of the Deaf Position Statement on Cochlear Implants
The National Association of the Deaf is an education and advocacy organization committed to promotion, protection, and preservation of the rights and quality of life of deaf and hard of hearing individuals in the United States of America. The targeted audience for this paper includes parents of deaf children, deaf individuals, medical professionals, and the media.
Cochlear Implants and the NAD: The NAD Broadcaster (January 2001)
Special issue of The NAD Broadcaster entirely focused only cochlear implants
Cochlear Implant Education Center
(Gallaudet University Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center)
The goal of the center is to investigate, evaluate, and share best educational practices for children with implants within Gallaudet’s demonstration schools, and at schools and programs nationally.
Cochlear Implant Association, Inc.
Cochlear Implant Association, Inc., formerly Cochlear Implant Club International, Inc., is a non-profit organization for cochlear implant recipients, their families, professionals, and other individuals interested in cochlear implants. The Association provides support and information and access to local support groups for adults and children who have cochlear implants, or who are interested in learning about cochlear implants.
"Deaf mom fights to keep kids from ear implants"
Article from The Grand Rapids Press, 9/6/2002
"Cochlear Implants: A Deaf Parent's Perspective"
Critique of a Washington Post article about cochlear implants and the deaf community, 5/11/1997
Nucleus Cochlear Implant Systems
Commerical website about Nucleus implants and recipient support
