Creating an Inclusive Classroom for Deaf Students

Amy Morton
Aug 20
3 min read

Updated: Sep 4

The Classroom Environment

Firstly, I suggest that for those looking for a classroom design, strongly consider carpet! A few years ago, I attended a short adult course, and the classroom was fitted with carpet. It was a complete game changer! I wasn’t as heavily reliant on a note taker during my lesson.

Also, ensure the room is well-lit and spacious. A clear view of the teacher is essential for lip-reading access. Reduce background noise as much as possible. Close doors and windows if feasible. Remember, introducing noise into the classroom can adversely affect your students.

Advice for Teachers

As a teacher or support worker, it’s vital to be familiar with various devices that can support a deaf student. Here are a few tools to consider:

Wireless Listening Systems: These allow the teacher to wear a device that transmits sound directly to the student's hearing aids.
Captions/Subtitles: Ensure all media has captions or subtitles.
BSL Interpreters: These professionals facilitate communication for your student.
Note Taker: A professional who takes notes during lessons in a neat, easy-to-read manner.
Lip Speakers: They provide a clear lip pattern in class, ensuring full access for lip readers.

I also believe that a deaf awareness course, such as those offered by Deaf Umbrella, would be highly beneficial in helping to understand a broader spectrum of the deaf community.

Be aware of your placement within the classroom. Your student will make the best decision for themselves. Please don’t walk around too much; if possible, stand or sit on a high stool while talking in a roughly fixed position. This helps your student position themselves optimally. It’s also beneficial for interpreters, lip speakers, and note-taker professionals.

Advice for Students

Position Yourself Well: Join us at Living with Hearing Loss for our conversation about positioning within the classroom. See the Instagram post here.
Give Feedback: At the end of class or during, provide feedback to help improve your access. Communication is vital for everyone involved in ensuring your educational experience is fully accessible.
Check Out Deaf Umbrella’s Guide: Their fantastic guide to ask for support here is a great resource.
Communicate with Your Teacher: Here’s an example of how to express your needs:

Dear [Teacher’s Name],

My name is [Student’s Name], and I am in your [subject/class name] class this term. I have a severe hearing loss in both ears and rely on specific support to ensure I can fully participate and access all aspects of the lesson.

To help me get the most out of your class, I would be grateful if you could:

Face me when speaking so I can lipread and follow your facial expressions.
Keep your position consistent when giving instructions — ideally standing or sitting in one spot rather than moving around.
Provide captions/subtitles on all videos, presentations, and online content.
Use my assistive technology — I use Bluetooth hearing aids and a Roger microphone (which you may need to wear when speaking).
Work with my support professionals, which may include a lip speaker, interpreter, or note taker, to ensure I have full access to the lesson content.

If anything is unclear or if adjustments need to be made during the term, I will let you know so we can work together to improve my learning experience.

Thank you for your understanding and support.

Kind regards,

[Student’s Name]

[Date]

The Importance of Inclusivity

By making thoughtful adjustments, educators can create an inclusive environment where deaf students can learn alongside their peers on an equal footing. It’s not just about access; it’s about empowerment, independence, and ensuring every student can succeed to the best of their ability.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this helpful, reader. Thank you for having me, Deaf Umbrella, and for all that you are doing to support CSWs and students. Together, we can create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive!