INNOVATIVE PRODUCTION OF AN ONLINE PROGRAM TO EDUCATE COVID-19 FOR THE DEAF: A CASE STUDY OF THAI DEAF HEALTH

Abstract

This research investigated the program production process, format, and contents of a live program titled “Thai Deaf Health” using the qualitative research methodology. The study consists of two parts: (1) analysis of data from producers through focus groups and in-depth interviews with 12 program producers, (2) analysis of program contents through an analysis of 24 episodes of the program as well as analysis of information from various documents concerned. The findings suggested that the investigated program “Thai Deaf Health” could be considered an innovative program for the deaf; it entailed live streaming on Facebook and YouTube with full-screen sign language. The program involved the hearing people, the deaf, and sign language interpreters, working together. The audience, whether hearing or deaf people, could watch the program at the same time without any additional service. It is considered media with a born accessible approach designed to create equity of information exposure for the deaf through four stages of program production based on the planning and preparation on the part of program producers with experience in working with the deaf.  In addition, a survey was also conducted to study the format, contents, and presentation from the deaf, sign language interpreters and experts to ensure that the program creation most corresponds to the needs and nature of the media exposure of the deaf. The deaf played a part in the participatory communication at two levels: as audience and as producers. As for the program format, it was designed to ensure a proper balance between the roles played by hearing and deaf people, using images and videos throughout for better understanding. The program consists of two sections: one involving health education by experts, and the other being a Question and Answer game. The audience could ask or leave their questions for the program in four ways: text messages, video clips, live questions during the broadcasting, and comments during the live broadcast.  With regard to the contents, it was found that the program would select issues for presentation on how to conduct one’s life during the COVID-19 pandemic, including other immediate health concerns. The issues were then simplified for quick and easy understanding. The audience could also contribute to the formation of interesting issues or topics to the program. These were conducive to the full utilization and participation of the deaf.