Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing rely upon visual input rather than auditory input when communicating. Using visual aspects of communication (body language, gestures, and facial expression) often feels awkward to people who are accustomed to auditory input; however, it is essential that faculty learn to effectively communicate with students who are deaf or hard of hearing. Make sure you have a deaf student's attention before speaking. A light touch on the shoulder, a wave, or other visual signal will help.
Students who are deaf or hard of hearing do not all have the same characteristics.
Some have a measure of usable residual hearing and use a device to amplify
sounds (FM system). Some choose to speak; others use very little or no oral
communication. Some students are extremely adept at speech reading, while
others have very limited ability to "read lips." For some, sign
language and/or finger spelling are the preferred means of communication;
other communication choices include gestures and writing. Most students who
are deaf or hard of hearing have experience communicating with the hearing
population. Let them be the guide on how best to communicate.
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Possible Common Accommodations:
- Auxiliary Aids
- Exam Accommodations
- Real Time Captioning
- Seating Arrangements
- Sign Language Interpreter/Interpreting Services
Possible Instructional Techniques:
- Access to Class Notes
- Adjustment in Oral Presentation (e.g., pace of speech, rules for speaking during discussions)
- Comprehensive Syllabus
- Cooperative Group Projects
- Exam Aids
- Guided Notes
- Multi-modality Instruction
- Study Aids
- Web-based Course Supplements
