Virtual Learning And Hearing Loss

Students attend classes in a variety of ways, whether it’s in-person, virtually, or a combination of the two. Hearing loss, auditory processing disorders, and deafness present challenges for students of all ages, no matter their class setting. Here are some tips for quality classroom communication.

Prepare Yourself And Your Students

Students with hearing loss or deafness may require support for effective learning in the classroom or remotely, and accommodations require planning. Take your lesson plan for a test-drive before implementing your curriculum. Ensure your video conferencing application runs correctly and enable closed captions. Platforms like Google and Microsoft offer real-time captioning to help listeners follow along.Give all your students access to notes, classwork, study guides before your session begins so they have a chance to familiarize themselves with their material. Knowing what they’re learning beforehand will help those with hearing loss stack on track.And give students time for chatter so the hard of hearing can adjust their audio/video elements if necessary.

Use Good Visuals

Hearing loss or not, a poorly lit room can wreak havoc on communication. Keeping lighting in front of your face to avoid shadows. Try wearing clear masks so students can read lips and catch visual cues. There are several versions available on Amazon and Etsy.Practice and encourage your students to use quality communication practices. This includes:

• Speaking slowly and loudly
• Getting a person’s attention before speaking
• Facing the listener
• Using hand motions and body language
• Raising hands before speaking, especially on video

Assistive Listening Devices For Learning

Social distancing requires you to speak louder. Sound systems will support better communication in the classroom, so you don’t have to shout and wear out your voice. Students with hearing aids will also appreciate the boost in volume without straining to listen.Students with hearing loss may also use table mics, like Starkey and Phonak, to pick up speakers’ voices. Remote mics are another option that streams audio directly to compatible hearing aids.

‍Contact Audiology & Hearing Services of Charlotte online or call 704-412-7975 and find your child’s perfect assistive listening devices.