THE IDEAL PROJECT: AIMS AND BENEFITS

1.1. AIM OF THIS CHAPTER

This chapter introduces the IDEAL project. It explains the project’s goals, benefits, and key outcomes. Educators will learn how the IDEAL project supports Deaf adults—including Deaf-blind and Deaf+ individuals—in improving their health literacy.

1.2. INTRODUCTION TO THE IDEAL PROJECT

IDEAL stands for “Increasing Deaf Adult Health Literacy through Innovative Methodologies.” The project aims to improve health literacy among Deaf adults, including those who are Deaf-blind and Deaf+. Funded by the European Union’s Erasmus+ program, it runs from 2023 to 2025. Seven organizations from Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Italy, Spain, and Hungary are working together on this project.

1.2.1. GOALS OF THE IDEAL PROJECT

The main goal of the IDEAL project is to:

Improve Health Literacy Among Deaf Adults
- Help Deaf adults learn more about physical and mental health.
- Make health information more accessible and understandable.
- Cover topics such as disease prevention, healthcare, complex health issues, and the impact of harmful habits on conditions like heart disease.

1.2.2. ADDRESSING UNIQUE NEEDS

Deaf adults, including Deaf-blind and Deaf+ individuals, have unique learning needs. The IDEAL project addresses these by:

Providing Specialized Training
- Creating training programs that meet their specific needs.
- Ensuring materials are accessible, using sign language, captions, tactile resources, and other suitable formats.
Using Innovative Teaching Methods
- Applying new teaching methods that engage Deaf learners.
- Incorporating digital tools and technology to enhance learning.
Respecting Language and Culture
- Valuing the Deaf community’s language (sign language) and culture.
- Promoting inclusivity by considering cultural differences.

1.2.3. WHO BENEFITS FROM THE IDEAL PROJECT (TARGET GROUPS)

The IDEAL project focuses on two main groups:

Direct Beneficiaries
- Deaf Adults: All Deaf individuals, including Deaf-blind and Deaf+, who will improve their health knowledge.
- Adult Educators: Teachers and trainers who work with Deaf adults will gain new teaching methods.
Indirect Beneficiaries
- Deaf Community: Families and friends of Deaf adults will benefit from improved health communication.
- Deaf Associations: Organizations supporting Deaf people will have more resources.
- Health Professionals and Centers: Doctors, nurses, and healthcare providers will learn how to communicate better with Deaf patients.
- Public Institutions related to Inclusion, Education, and Health: Schools, colleges, and organizations working on inclusion, education, and health will have better tools and understanding.

1.2.4. BENEFITS OF THE IDEAL PROJECT

The IDEAL project brings many benefits:

Understanding Health Needs
- Identifying what health information Deaf adults need.
Empowering Deaf Adults
- Provide tools and resources to help them access and understand health information.
- Helping them take control of their health and well-being.
Develop Effective Teaching Methods
- Create the best teaching approaches for Deaf adults to grasp health principles.
- Training educators to use methods that suit Deaf learners, including Deaf-blind and Deaf+.
Improve Digital Skills
- Enhancing Deaf adults’ abilities to use digital tools.
- Making it easier for them to find health information online.
Educating Healthcare Professionals
- Teaching doctors and nurses how to communicate effectively with Deaf patients.
- Promoting respect for sign language and Deaf culture in healthcare settings.
Share Educational Resources
- Creating educational videos in sign language.
- Sharing learning materials through social media and a user-friendly website.

Example: Maria, a Deaf-blind adult, uses the IDEAL project’s resources to learn about managing her diabetes. With materials in tactile formats and videos with captions, she understands her condition better and communicates more effectively with her healthcare provider.

1.2.5. WHAT THE IDEAL PROJECT WILL PRODUCE

To reach its goals, the IDEAL project will create:

Handbook for Adult Educators
- A guide with new teaching methods to help Deaf adults learn actively.
- Includes strategies to improve digital skills.
- Available in accessible formats for educators.
Health Education Program for Deaf Adults
- A learning program teaching basic health knowledge.
- Helps Deaf adults, including Deaf-blind and Deaf+, to care for their physical and mental health.
- Uses interactive and engaging methods.
Awareness Videos in Sign Language
- Videos covering important health topics and how to prevent illnesses.
- Made in sign language for the Deaf community.
- Enhances understanding and awareness.
Website and Mobile App
- A user-friendly website and app.
- Provides sign language videos on health and prevention topics.
- Includes a toolbox with educational resources for learning sessions.
Seminars for Health Professionals
- Event for doctors, nurses, and healthcare staff.
- Focus on communicating effectively with Deaf patients.
- Promote understanding of Deaf culture and language.

How Will These Be Shared?

The handbook and resources will be available online for educators worldwide.
Seminars will raise awareness among healthcare professionals.
Social media and partnerships with Deaf associations will help share materials.

1.2.6. LEARN MORE

Learn more about the IDEAL project, visit our website:

https://ideal-health.top/

Here you will find:

Updates on project activities and results.
Resources and materials for educators and Deaf adults.
Information on upcoming seminars and events.

Increasing DEaf Adult health Literacy through innovative methodologies

Curriculum

THE IDEAL PROJECT: AIMS AND BENEFITS

THE IDEAL PROJECT: AIMS AND BENEFITS

1.1. AIM OF THIS CHAPTER

1.2. INTRODUCTION TO THE IDEAL PROJECT

1.2.1. GOALS OF THE IDEAL PROJECT

1.2.2. ADDRESSING UNIQUE NEEDS

1.2.3. WHO BENEFITS FROM THE IDEAL PROJECT (TARGET GROUPS)

1.2.4. BENEFITS OF THE IDEAL PROJECT

1.2.5. WHAT THE IDEAL PROJECT WILL PRODUCE

1.2.6. LEARN MORE

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