The laws governing the accommodations which must be made available to hard of hearing students will vary based on the school’s location. Different nations and areas may have different laws. Most schools have specialized classes set up for those who are hearing impaired, but some may offer even more accommodations. Some schools may offer assistants who speak sign language or equipment to make hearing easier for those who have partial hearing loss.
Most schools are required to have somewhere for hard of hearing students to learn effectively. This can be special accommodations made within a normal classroom setting, tutoring, or a separate classroom altogether. What each student needs may vary depending on how severe their hearing impairments are. Some may only need to sit closer to the front of the room or have more one on one attention, while others may need a teacher who knows sign language.
Many times the accommodations made for hard of hearing students are partially dictated by each individual teacher. Most educators want their students to make the most of their classroom time, so they are generally willing to provide certain support. They may spend extra time with these students to make sure they fully understand assignments and instructions. They may also be sure to face in the direction of students who have hearing loss so that they can read their lips more effectively.
Additional standards are usually set for schools which are designed specifically for hearing impaired students. There are schools for the deaf and sometimes for the deaf and blind. These generally have classrooms with teachers who know sign language. Smaller classrooms with more attention to each student is also important. Special educators may also be available to teach students spoken language or to help them improve skills they already have.
Parents who are concerned with how their hard of hearing students are being taught in school should consult with teachers and faculty. If sufficient care isn’t taken to ensure proper educational opportunities for deaf and hard of hearing individuals, either in lower educational establishments or in college settings, government agencies can be contacted for help. Private schools may also be available.
Older students can contact the schools themselves to make special accommodations. This age group generally has more of an idea of which learning techniques are most beneficial for them, so asking for certain considerations is often much easier. If there are questions on what schools are required to offer by law in a specific area, they can contact the local school board or government agency for information.