It sounds (no pun intended) like you selected an excellent topic for your paper, Dixie.
Prior to receiving my CIs, I used a combination of tactile terps and written (Brailled) communication.
One of my favorite communication methods was to use my TeleBraille (Braille TTY) which has a face-to-face communication mode.
Even though messages are written out in Grade I (uncontracted) Braille, I still found this method easier to use than tactile sign in some cases since I didn't have to worry about sensitive or embarassing information having to be exchanged between me, another person and my terp (particularly at doctor appointments).
