From Silence to Broader Connection: Exploring Social Media’s Impact on Social- Emotional Learning for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Youth

This project explores how social media and digital platforms can support the social-emotional learning of deaf and hearing-impaired adolescents by promoting self-expression, emotional support, and social connections. The inspiration for this project came from a documentary shot using visual ethnography methods at a special education school in Guilin, China. There, DHH students demonstrated rich emotional expressions among their peers through dance, gestures, and social media. This project further explored the potential of social media platforms in breaking down communication barriers, promoting inclusiveness, and enhancing Social Emotional Learning. In addition to the literature review, this project has also developed an interactive website, including documentaries, sign language learning resources, visual art exhibitions, multi-sensory modules and reflection sections. This platform combines Chinese Sign Language (CSL) and American Sign Language (ASL), featuring bright visual effects and gesture animations, aiming to reduce operational barriers and enhance cross-cultural accessibility. In addition to creative achievements, this project also reflects the challenges of inclusive digital design and emphasizes the importance of a user-centered approach. The future development directions include developing questionnaires based on vision and sign language, and conducting real-world user tests to further optimize the experience of DHH youth.