Working with Deaf or Hard of Hearing Students

Instructional Tips for SDSU Faculty and Staff

• Face the class as much as possible when speaking, and speak clearly and loudly.
  • Try not to talk while writing on the board or when facing away from the class.
  • Repeat any questions or comments from students so everyone can follow the discussion.
  • Make sure only one person speaks at a time during discussions.
  • Provide any spoken announcements (like class cancellations, schedule changes, or assignment details) in writing too.
• Use the classroom sound system. If it's not working, contact Classroom Technology Services for help.
  • Keep background noise to a minimum.
  • Show videos and PowerPoints with captions. If captions aren’t available, provide a summary or outline of the material.
  • Use visual aids like whiteboards, projectors, charts, and diagrams to help students understand.
• Offer students the option to sit near the front, but respect their seating preferences if they choose not to.
• Allow students to record lectures or, even better, provide lecture notes before class.
  • Students may use a note-taker as part of their accommodations.
• Some people who are hard of hearing might only hear certain frequencies or volumes and may use hearing aids, lip-reading, or devices like Roger Pens to help.
• People who are deaf may use American Sign Language (ASL) as their main form of communication or a mix of spoken language and sign language, sometimes with hearing aids or cochlear implants.
  • Some students with interpreters may prefer the interpreter to speak for them, while others may choose to speak for themselves.