Interpreting & Assistive Listening Devices
Children develop most language and communication skills before the age of three, so early intervention is needed if parents suspect a hearing loss. Some profoundly deaf children learn sign language. Some children with hearing loss may benefit from assistive listening devices like hearing aids, FM systems, induction loops and infrared systems. When children begin school, school districts provide a free assessment of their needs in the classroom and may suggest a variety of listening and communication options.
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Deaf Children
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Deaf children who communicate in American Sign Language (ASL) can benefit from interpretation by a qualified educational sign language interpreter in the classroom. Another option is having a teacher who is fluent in sign present the curriculum in sign language. If the student reads lips, arrange to seat her at the front of the class..
Hearing Aids
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hearing aid A hearing aid is an electronic device that detects sound waves through a small microphone. The hearing aid then amplifies weaker sound and modifies sound signals in other ways as it transmits them to the ear through a tiny speaker. If a medical professional recommends hearing aids, a hearing aid professional can help select the most appropriate device. Dispensers may be hearing aid specialists or audiologists and can be found either in hearing care businesses or as part of a large retail chain.
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FM Systems
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The microphone on the transmitter of an FM System sends FM waves to a receiver similar to that of a radio station. The U.S. government has designated special frequencies for FM systems users to avoid interference from other FM sound waves. Children use the receiver to hear the teacher speaking in the classroom.
Induction Loops
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Induction loops are special amplification technology that can be used with or without hearing aids. An electric current is amplified as it passes through a wire loop, generating a magnetic field. The strength of the magnetic field varies according to the frequency and power of the transmitted signal. When a second wire is put in the field of the first wire, a similar electrical current is produced that can be converted to duplicate the original sound and be amplified.
Infrared Systems
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An infrared system works like a remote control by sending invisible beams of light to a receiver that senses the infrared rays and changes the signal to sound. The system works best in a darker room and requires a lot of electrical power.
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References
Resources
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