Observations D'un Sourd Et Muèt Sur UN Cours Élémentaire D'éducation Des Sourds Et Muèts Publié En 1779 Par M. L'abbé Deshamps, Chapelain De L'église D'orléans

A critical treatise, likely written in the late 18th century. This book engages deeply with the educational methodologies for the deaf and mute, specifically debating the methods proposed by Abbé Deschamps in his popular course. The main theme revolves around the use of sign language versus the spoken language acquisition methods that were emerging at the time, a significant discourse on learning and communication for individuals with hearing disabilities. In the text, Desloges, who himself is deaf and mute, defends the use of sign language for educating the deaf, arguing against the approach taken by Abbé Deschamps that emphasizes oral communication through the visual observation of speech movements. Desloges provides personal insights and experiences, illustrating how sign language has served as a natural and efficient means of communication among the deaf community. He critiques Deschamps's method as overly complex and difficult, suggesting instead that sign language allows for clarity and precision in expressing a wide range of ideas, making it more suited for effectively educating deaf individuals. Through his observations, Desloges highlights the richness of sign language, asserting it as a valid and necessary component of educational practices for the deaf.