Ethics, Deaf-Friendly Research, and Good Practice When Studying Sign Languages

This chapter addresses a range of issues that become important during sign language research, where hearing and Deaf researchers work together. The aim of the chapter is to highlight ethical and practical factors that sometimes can get sidelined during the research process but are crucial for its sustainability. The question of how Deaf people are involved in the research process is very important; some scholars argue that the authority for the construction of "admissible evidence" rests only with sign language community members themselves. The chapter focuses on four ethical considerations that are unique to research fieldwork carried out in developing countries: informed consent regarding the nature of the research; appropriate compensation; maintaining personal and professional relationships; and preparing the research team for fieldwork. It outlines the development of formalized agreements between researchers and schools where Deaf children are educated in the United Kingdom.