Working with Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing Students
- 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 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.
Contact us

Office of Student Accessibility
Physical Address
1421 Student Union Ln.
Brookings,
SD
57007
Mailing Address
University Student Union 271, Box 2815C
Brookings,
SD
57007
Hours
Mon - Fri: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Fax: 605-688-4987