Sensory Impairments

HEARING IMPAIRMENT

Identification of a student who may have a hearing impairment:
- turns head and positions ear toward the speaker
- asks for instructions and information to be repeated frequently
- appears inattentive
- uses a loud voice when speaking and does not respond when spoken to
- vocabulary is restricted
- is easily distracted by visual stimuli
- has a confused look on face

Classroom Adaptations and/or Accommodations for students with Hearing Impairments:
- Physical considerations -- position teacher so students can see his/her facial cues, position teacher so he/she faces students when teaching, seat students in a semi-circle to increase sight-lines
- ensure adequate lighting
- dampen classroom noise with carpeting, think curtains, rubber tips on chairs and tables
- provide visual reminders of time remaining in class
- use homework assignment books and journals to check for understanding
- use technology

Services:
- Educational interpreter (American Sign Language)
- note taker


VISUAL IMPAIRMENT

Symptoms of Possible Vision Problems:
- rubs eyes
- tilts head, covers one eye, squints
- blinks more than usual
- holds books close to eyes
- eyes crossed
- inflamed and watery eyes
- swollen eyelids
- complains that eyes itch
- complains of headaches, dizziness or nausea after close eye work

Classroom Adaptations and/or Accommodations for students with Visual Impairments:
- ask student is assistance is needed
- strategic seating arrangements
- teach all students how to use proper technique in being a sight guide
- be vocal for when you are leaving and entering a room
- ensure proper lighting
- speak directly to student
- take regular breaks at intervals to reduce fatigue in listening or using the Braille machine
- encourage independent learning
- use technology

Smith, T. E. (1998). Teaching students with special needs in inclusive settings (2nd ed.). Boston: Allyn and Bacon.