Four Questions you May Have About Assistive Technology in the Classroom (Ch. 6)

This month we will be discussing some different technology devices and programs used in the school system with students with special needs. Below is the first set of 3 chapters of questions. After that we will discuss some different types of assistive technology. Here we go!


What kinds of obstacles do students who are hard of hearing face in the typical classroom?

They may have speech impairments. They have difficulty following lectures, especially if the acoustics are poor in the room or if the teacher speaks quietly. Classrooms might lessen the hearing aids' effectiveness. The student needs to lip read. If the teacher has his/her back to the student, this can not be done. Video presentations are also hard for the student to follow. 

What practices should a teacher follow if she or he has a student in class who uses an assistive listening system?

• - Know about the device being used and train with it. 
• -Discuss the device with the student ahead of time.
• -Position the microphone so it is not near a noise source. It should be 3-5 inches away from the speaker's mouth. 
• -Inform the entire class about how the device will be used during class time. Remind the students to speak one at a time. Repeat questions and comments. Pass the microphone from student to student when needed. 
• - Try to face the student if he/she relies on visual cues. 
• -Use the device for audiovisual presentations.
• -Perform a listening check regularly. Establish and follow a routine maintenance routine and schedule.

What is hearing assistive technology and how can it help students who are hard of hearing?

-Hearing assistive technology- assistive technology that helps people who have hearing losses. Assistive listening devices help reduce the effect of an acoustically unfriendly room. 
ALDs help the students by:

• minimizing background noise (chairs moving, students talking, motors)
• overcoming the weakening effect of sound traveling through air
• reducing the effect of poor room acoustics

What is augmentative communication, and why is it important?

Augmentative communication serves as an alternative to speech for people who cannot talk. Augmentative communication is defined as a way to supplement an individual's method of communication to assist comprehension. It is important in making themselves understood and for conveying clear messages to a variety of audiences.
      -examples include:

• communication boards (low tech) http://www.mayer-johnson.com/boardmaker-software
• ECO-2 (high tech)

References
Dell, A., Newton, D., & Petroff, J. (2012). Assistive technology in the classroom. (2nd ed., pp. 139-160). Boston: Pearson.