Hearing Disabilities
Students who have hearing impairments often depend upon the visual presentation of information. They may also need to sit in the front of the class to better hear. Occasionally, a student may ask that an instructor wear an adaptive device that transmits his or her voice to a private listening earpiece. Additionally, students may tape-record lectures or request copies of lecture notes. If possible, the instructor should supplement oral presentations with relevant visual information. Written handouts, blackboard usage and overhead materials are particularly useful. Copies of lecture notes are ideal. To encourage participation in lectures, students who have hearing impairments need to be aware of material before each lecture. A simple handout covering important points is very helpful.