Rebecca Knill: How technology has changed what it's like to be deaf

Rebecca, a cyborg with cochlear implants, shares her journey from growing up deaf to embracing technology that aids hearing. She explains the science behind hearing and cochlear implants, reflects on cultural perceptions of deafness, and advocates for improved accessibility and changing societal attitudes. Rebecca highlights the importance of technology in bridging communication gaps and challenges outdated views on disability.

What is the primary function of the cochlear implant in Rebecca's life?

• To improve her sense of taste

• To increase her physical strength

• To rebuild her sense of hearing

• To enhance her vision

What does Rebecca say about the role of technology in her life?

• It has helped make the world more human

• It has been largely irrelevant

• It has made her life more complicated

• It has isolated her from others

What organ in the ear is responsible for sending electrical signals to the brain?

• Auditory nerve

• Cochlea

• Eardrum

• Pinna

What does Rebecca compare the cochlear implant's function to?

• A camera capturing images

• A computer processing data

• A box of 16 crayons creating all colors

• A musical instrument

What was a major concern about cochlear implants in the 1980s?

• They were only for children

• They were too expensive

• They were considered culturally controversial

• They were not available to the public

What advantage does Rebecca mention about having bionic body parts?

• They can be turned off at will

• They require no maintenance

• They are indestructible

• They are invisible

How does Rebecca describe the biggest obstacle she faces as a deaf person?

• Inability to communicate

• Outdated societal responses to deafness

• Physical barriers

• Lack of access to technology

What does Rebecca suggest is necessary for changing how people think about accessibility?

• Being more than accessible, being connected

• Better education

• Ignoring the issue

• More laws

What societal change does Rebecca highlight as a positive development for communication?

• The rise of social media

• The decline of email

• The increase in phone calls

• The normalization of texting

What does Rebecca say about the mindset towards technology and accessibility?

• It is perfect as it is

• It is irrelevant

• It needs to catch up with technological advancements

• It is already advanced