Deafness

In Austria, about 8.000 to 10.000 people are „Deaf“ and mainly communicate in their favoured language: Austrian Sign Language.
„Deaf“ is the most commonly used term, whereas the use of the out-dated term “deaf and dumb” is seen as discriminating. Historically seen, Deafness is very significant for equalizent, because since its beginning in the year 2001, equalizent employs Deaf people. Our courses and services are aligned to Deafness, so interpreters are hardly needed.

The staff members are either Deaf or have excellent ÖGS (Austrian Sign Language) skills. Therefore, classes are directly taught in ÖGS:
Many pleased clients tell us about the advantages of this form of teaching. Not only is ÖGS a main part of our offers in the area of Deafness, but also our rooms which are equipped barrier-free. Light signals, optical media, adapted course materials, disappearing screens, special desks etc. offer target oriented learning at equalizent.

Target oriented integration mentoring are additionally included in our daily courses and trainings, in order to make entering into a first labour market or continuing further education easier.

Even working people have the opportunity to attend our numerous further education courses which are taught in ÖGS.