Modifying the Listening Environment
1. Classroom Acoustics
Reduce reverberation within the room by adding room dividers, bookshelves,
acoustic tiles, carpet, wall hangings, bulletin boards, etc.
2. Classroom Placement
A self-contained structured environment is preferable. An open, unstructured
teaching environment should be avoided.
3. Classroom Seating
Preferential seating is recommended to maximize benefits from auditory and
visual cues. Assigned seats should be away from the hall and street noise
and not more than ten feet from the teacher.
4. Quiet Study Area
Strategies for Improved Communication
1. Gain Attention
Obtain the child's attention before giving instructions. This can be done
by calling the child's name or by a gentle touch.
2. Monitor Comprehension
Periodically, ask the child questions related to the subject under discussion.
3. Rephrase
Restate what has been misunderstood rather than repeating the information.
The speaker should consider reducing the omplexity of the message as well
as the vocabulary level.
4. Use Brief Instructions
5. Pretutor
Familiarize the child with new vocabulary and concepts to be covered in class.
Parents can be particularly helpful in this activity.
6. List Key Vocabulary
Before dealing with new material, write key vocabulary on the chalkboard.
The discussion should center around these words.
7. Write Instructions
Write assignments on the board. Another child can be assigned as a "buddy"
to make sure the child is made aware of assignments made during the day.
8. Visual Aids
Jotting key words on the blackboard, or providing simple written/picture
outlines may be useful in presenting information.
9. Individual Help
One-to-one teacher tutoring will help fill in the gaps in understanding.
10. Provide Breaks
Children with auditory processing problems will need frequent breaks. This
child will expend more effort in paying attention and discriminating information
than other children. Therefore, they must have a chance to relax. Once a child
is fatigued, further instruction will lead to frustration on the part of
both teacher and child.
Be Supportive
All children will benefit from an environment which is sensitive to their
problem, and provides support and reinforcement for work performed successfully.