Deaf Studies Research Unit

The Deaf Studies Research Unit was established in 1995 with the goal of conducting research on topics relating to deaf people and their language in New Zealand.

The Deaf Studies Research Unit formally came into being during the production of A Dictionary of New Zealand Sign Language, the first of its kind in New Zealand. This project was completed by a team of deaf and hearing researchers in collaboration with the Deaf community over the period 1992-1997.

Our research focuses on language learning and teaching of New Zealand Sign Language and development of the Deaf Community,

Postgraduate study

The School of Linguistics and Applied Language Studies welcomes applications for postgraduate study from students with appropriate academic backgrounds who wish to conduct thesis research in the area of Deaf Studies. Permanent research staff of the DSRU are Dr David McKee (Director) and Dr Rachel McKee.