ADVANCING FUTURE through INCLUSION
hearing impairment
What does hearing impairment involve?
Hearing impairment is a condition that involves a partial or total loss of hearing which can affect communication and social development. The condition can range from mild to acute loss of hearing and can affect one or both ears.
Hearing impairment not only refers to hearing loss in medical terms, but also has implications for communication, learning and social interaction and its management requires a holistic and multidisciplinary approach.
Catering for students with hearing impairment requires a deep understanding of their needs and a conscious adaptation of the school environment.
The implementation of inclusive strategies in teaching practice not only facilitates comprehension and participation of students with hearing difficulties, but also promotes an inclusive educational community where all students feel valued and supported.
ENABLING STRATEGIES
Hearing impairment can impact greatly on how students access information, communicate and participate in school activities. However, with the appropriate strategies, an inclusive environment that promotes their learning and allows them to achieve their maximum potential, is possible.
Students’ specific needs
Not all people with hearing impairment have the same needs. Consult students, families and specialists to understand the degree of hearing loss and the aids used such as hearing aids, cochlear implants or sign language.
Visual contact when speaking
It is essential that students with hearing impairment can read lips and pick up on visual signals. Always speak facing the person, avoid covering your mouth or speaking with your back turned as you’re writing on the whiteboard.
Clear and unhurried language
Although it is important to speak naturally, ensure that pace and pronunciation are clear. Avoid speaking too quickly or in a very low voice.
Visual aids
Use images, diagrams, subtitles, graphs and other visual resources that reinforce what you are explaining orally. This will facilitate comprehension and enrich the content.
Repetition or paraphrasing
In group discussions or when another student is speaking, repeat or paraphrase out loud what they are saying. This will allow students with hearing impairment to follow the conversation, especially if they are unable to see the other speaker. Moreover, complement oral explications with notes or written summaries of important topics. These can be given to students either before or after class.
Constant feedback
Give constant and constructive feedback to the student. Ensure that he or she understands the content and instructions and is progressing adequately in his or her studies.
Activities with clear instructions
Provide instructions in written format. This ensures that students fully understand what is expected of them without relaying only on verbal explanations.
Good acoustics in the classroom
Avoid background noise. It can interfere with students’ ability to hear while using hearing aids or implants. Use carpets and curtains to improve the acoustics.
Strategic Placement
Position students with hearing impairments in a location where they can clearly see the teacher and the rest of the class. The front row or a spot near the teacher are the best places to facilitate lip reading and visual attention.
Families and experts
Communicate openly and constantly with families and with other experts, such as therapists or support teachers. This will help give a collaborative and coherent focus to students’ education.
remember…
If possible, learn sign language
Mantain eye contact while speaking
Use clear and slow-paced language
Repeat or paraphrase the contributions of other students
Prepare activities with clear instructions
Strategic placement in the classroom
“Your disability doesn't define you. What you do with it does.” Jim Abbot
with the collaboration of…
Fundación ONCE
The Fundación ONCE for the Cooperation and Social Inclusion of people with disabilities was set up in February 1988 by agreement of the General Council. In September of that same year, it was launched as an instrument of cooperation and solidarity by blind people in Spain towards other collectives with disability to improve their living conditions.
