As another new school year approaches, providing students with practical strategies for successful learning is important. Whether students attend in-person or through online classes, following these back to school communication tips will prove invaluable.
Back to School Communication Tips
Start with a Baseline
It’s difficult to fix something when you don’t know it’s broken. The best place to start is getting a hearing test before school tests begin. Arranging a hearing checkup will help you know where to begin. It’s especially important if you see any sign of potential hearing loss, such as:
• Difficulty following instructions from teachers
• Experiencing tinnitus, a ringing sound in the ears or head
• Struggling to understand people speaking through masks
• Recurring replies of “What?” or “Huh?”
• Earaches
• Turning up media volume on devices
• Poor grades or messages that your child isn’t responding in class
Reduce or Eliminate Background Noise
Distracting background noise can inhibit the learning process. Try incorporating these valuable tips can help reduce noise:
• Close doors and windows to lessen background sounds
• Use noise-canceling headphones/hearing aids
• Try out sound-dampening wall panels
• Use rooms with carpeted floors for classrooms
Utilize Lip-Reading
Lip-reading and hearing awareness are natural parts of communication. It’s important to ensure each student can see their teacher clearly. The same is true for online classes. It’s crucial to ensure the instructor appears on the screen so their lips can be seen.
Use Captions
Turn on audio captions to help with video learning and online lectures. Web-based phone apps are also available for live transcription.
Make Use of Assistive Listening Devices
Modern hearing assistance technology goes beyond standard hearing aids. These devices have a wide range of connectivity possibilities, allowing you to find the ideal device for your needs:
• T-coil systems for wireless FM audio
• Wireless microphones can enhance communication in smaller environments
• Bluetooth devices can connect some hearing aids to digital sources like smartphones and computers
• Speak to your audiologist about compatibility options for your hearing aid devices
Improving hearing abilities with technology can significantly benefit students of every age group, enabling them to excel academically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting with a hearing test helps identify any potential hearing loss or issues that might affect a student's ability to learn. Early detection allows for timely interventions, ensuring the student has the support they need for successful communication and academic performance.
Signs include difficulty following instructions, tinnitus (ringing in ears), struggling to understand speech through masks, frequently asking for repetitions, earaches, turning up device volumes, and poor academic performance. Recognizing these signs early is crucial for obtaining necessary hearing support.
Background noise can be minimized by closing doors and windows, using noise-canceling headphones or hearing aids, installing sound-dampening wall panels, and utilizing classrooms with carpeted floors. These measures help create a quieter environment conducive to better hearing and concentration.
Lip-reading helps students understand spoken communication better, especially those with hearing difficulties. Ensuring that teachers are clearly visible in classrooms and on video screens supports this natural communication method and enhances comprehension.
Captions provide a visual representation of spoken content, which supports students who have hearing challenges or struggle with understanding audio alone. They also improve accessibility during online lectures and recorded videos, ensuring all students can follow along.
Assistive listening devices include T-coil systems for wireless FM audio, wireless microphones for small group communication, and Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids that connect to smartphones and computers. Audiologists can help determine which devices best fit individual needs.
Modern hearing technology enhances communication by improving sound clarity and accessibility, allowing students to better engage with lessons and participate actively. This technological support supports improved understanding, confidence, and academic achievement across all age groups.
