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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 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.

Working with An Interpreter:

  • Some students may use sign language interpreters to help with communication.
    • When speaking, look at and talk directly to the student, not the interpreter.
    • Speak at a normal pace. If needed, the interpreter will ask you to slow down.
    • Let the interpreter sit or stand near you so that the student can see both of you easily.
    • Since interpreters are a few words behind, pause between topics to give the student time to ask questions.
  • Interpreters may ask for class materials beforehand to prepare for the lecture.
    • If class is canceled, let the student know right away so they can cancel the interpreter.