How to Teach Hearing and Speech Impaired Students?

Hearing problems interfere with learning and performance. Hearing problems may also cause speech problems. So we should identify such students and take steps to meet their educational needs.

Identification of Hearing Disability:

The level of hearing is measured by audiometers in terms of decibels (d b). Mild loss is within the range of 20-30 d b, marginal 30-40 d b, moderate 40-60 d b, severe 60-75 d b, and profound loss is above 75 d b.

The students with hearing problems can be easily identified by observing their behaviors.

The behavior of students with hearing problem is as under:

1. He has observable deformity in the ear (s).

2. Frequent discharge from the ear (s).

3. Complain of pain in ears frequently.

4. Displays speech difficulty.

5. While listening to the teacher, watches his face carefully.

6. Makes, many errors in taking dictation.

7. Frequently requests teacher to repeat directions and question.

8. Turns head on one side to hear well.

9. Scratches ear(s) frequently.

The student with any of these behaviors may be referred for a medical check up. It is important to get the help of the professionals to identify the degree of loss and suitability of the hearing aid.

Education of Disabled Students:

1. Students with hearing problems should be asked to sit near the teacher for improved listening.

2. Teacher should use a reasonable level of pitch (voice) while speaking.

3. Teacher should avoid mumbling and speaking too fast.

4. While reading from the text book his lips should be visible to the students so that they are able to supplement listening up lip-reading. While speaking or writing on the blackboard teacher should face the students.

Speeches defects arising out of hearing problems can be corrected through speech training, using reinforced drill and practice.