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RT-31 Mission and Overview

The Arkansas Rehabilitation Research and Training Center for Persons who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (RT-31) was established in 1981 via funding from the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR), United States Department of Education. The mission of RT-31 is to conduct research and training designed to enhance the rehabilitation outcomes of persons who are deaf or hard of hearing. Toward this goal, RT-31 emphasizes (a) conducting a program of research in areas of high priority for the field of deafness rehabilitation; (b) developing and translating research knowledge into materials and products usable by consumers and practitioners; (c) training consumers and deafness rehabilitation professionals; and (d) disseminating information and products to a national audience of consumers, rehabilitation researchers, and service providers. The RTC programmatic structure is illustrated in Figure 1 below.

Organizationally, the Center functions as a program within the Department of Rehabilitation Education and Research in the College of Education and Health Professions, University of Arkansas, in conjunction with Arkansas Rehabilitation Services. This structure bridges the gap between theory and practice, linking academic research resources with applied needs and settings.

RT-31 is fortunate to be assisted in its selection of research and training priorities through the guidance of a National Advisory Council. This Council has a membership consisting of prominent individuals who have specialized knowledge and expertise in such areas as rehabilitation, deafness and hearing impairment, employment, secondary and postsecondary education, interpreting, vocational assessment and career guidance, independent living, job placement, and related fields in the behavioral sciences.

NIDRR PRIORITY
Vocational Rehabilitation Services for Individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

 CENTER MISSION
Enhancing the Employability of Persons who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

Interaction between the Key Participants which include:
        Consumers,
        Employers, and
        Service Providers leading to

Enhanced Employability in the areas of:
        Preparation,
        Entry/Placement,
        Maintenance/Advancement

Outcomes:
        Marketable Skills,
        Gainful Employment,
        Security and Promotion

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