Cochlear Implants: Covering the Basics. (2000). Presented by Phil Bravin; produced by Jo Dannis. DawnSign Press, 6130 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121. 40 minutes; $39.95. Reviewed by Linda Snow, Governor Baxter School for the Deaf, Portland, ME.

In this 40-minute videotape, Phil Bravin, Deaf community leader and educator, presents very basic technological and physiological information about the ear, hearing loss, hearing aids, and cochlear implants, as well as advice on making decisions about cochlear implant surgery. The information is delivered by Bravin in American Sign Language with voice-over and closed captioning, making it accessible to viewers with deafness, hearing loss, and individuals who are hearing.

Technical quality of the video is good, and the presentation is clear and easy to follow. Information is delivered in a lecture format, with no simulations or visuals other than highlights that are emphasized in large print during Bravin’s presentation. The strong point of this video is that it comments on the important part that Deaf culture and language play in the overall discussion about deafness, a perspective frequently not found in publications from the medical community and cochlear implant manufacturers. In addition to relaying an appreciation for Deaf culture and language, Bravin offers advice not commonly expressed in discussions about cochlear implants—he stresses the seriousness of the decision and the need to do research, ask questions, and to weigh carefully the expected benefits and risks.

Unfortunately, there are factual inaccuracies in the information presented in this videotape, and some critical information is missing. For example, the structure of the middle ear is described incorrectly, and an inaccurate term is used to describe a mild degree of hearing loss. In addition, information about how cochlear implants can provide significantly greater access to sound than hearing aids for many individuals is not mentioned in the section of the video that addresses benefits and risks.

The inaccurate and missing information preclude a recommendation for consumer viewing of this videotape. However, the perspective and the intent of this videotape are admirable and sorely needed. If DawnSign Press were to revise the video to correct the inaccuracies, it would be beneficial for anyone researching the benefits and limitations of cochlear implantation. The videotape would be especially viewer-friendly for members of the Deaf community or hearing parents of children who are deaf and whose primary language is American Sign Language. Such a videotape would provide a more well-rounded resource on cochlear implants than is now available.