Estonian sign language research 1985–2024: a systematic literature review of methods, data, and research practices

Abstract

This study presents the first systematic literature review of research on Estonian Sign Language (EVK) published between 1985 and 2024. Using Okoli's eight-step systematic literature review (SLR) model, we identified and screened 52 sources. Twenty-one were excluded on the basis of predefined criteria, leaving 31 studies for analysis. We examined how data-collection methods, annotation practices, and analytical frameworks have shaped the development of EVK linguistics. The findings reveal a gradual shift from descriptive documentation toward more empirical and methodologically reflective research. Many studies reflect the methodological conditions of their time, including a reliance on elicited rather than naturalistic data, non-standardized transcription practices until 2006, and analytical frameworks shaped by earlier linguistic traditions of the 1960s–2000s. Across the reviewed literature, methodological conditions varied considerably, reflecting different historical phases in which formal training opportunities in linguistics, research teams with EVK proficiency and corpus-based infrastructures were not yet consistently available. Only a small number of studies reported the use of ELAN annotation or systematically documented participatory practices involving Deaf collaborators or heritage signers. The review highlights significant progress in methodological awareness but underscores persistent gaps in the Estonian Sign Language research landscape, linguistic infrastructure and involvement of Deaf researchers. By tracing EVK research across historical phases, the review identifies priorities that could inform a collaborative, ethically grounded and corpus-based research agenda. Such an agenda could support cooperation among universities, Deaf community organisations, researchers, educators and language-policy actors, while enhancing data transparency, reproducibility and the sustainable development of EVK research.