Creating accessible learning environments for Deaf students

I was a student a few generations ago; however, I remember what the classrooms looked like and what helped and what didn’t. I also know, from recent years of adult education, what helps tremendously and what doesn’t. I was born with a severe hearing loss in both ears and was quickly equipped with analogue hearing aids to support my understanding of speech and to help me. I was also referred to a speech therapist at different moments, and I had a mother who was an ex-teacher who supported me.

I am now a BTE hearing aid Bluetooth tech user in both ears, a high-functioning lip reader and learning British Sign Language, passed level 1, and studied level 2, and I've just assigned myself to level 3. I am also a mother of two children.

Anyway, with that, I can help provide some pointers on creating an accessible environment for your deaf students.

The classroom:

Firstly, I would 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, so much so that I wasn’t as heavily reliant on a note taker during my lesson. Also:

Ensure the room is well-lit and spacious, with a clear view of the teacher for lip-reading access. Reduce and background noise as much as possible, e.g., close doors and windows if feasible – be aware that introducing noise into the classroom can have an adverse effect on your students.

Advice for Teachers:

The next piece of advice I would offer is that, as a teacher or support worker, ensure you are familiar with the various devices that can support a deaf student. These are a few, but also take the time to get to know your student and support them in implementing these within their learning environment. Each student's preferences will be different from the next – it's not a one-size-fits-all situation.

• Rodger Pen – a Tool where the teacher will wear the tech and device for the student to listen to through their Bluetooth hearing aids

• Captions/subtitles on ALL media

• BSL Interpreters – please understand these are used in the classroom to facilitate communication for your student

• Note taker – A professional who will take notes from the teacher of what's spoken of during the lesson time in a neat, easy-to-read manner.

• Lip speakers – enable a clear lip pattern in class to ensure full access is available for the student if they are a lip reader.

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, as a teacher, of your placement within the classroom – and of your students' positions. 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 to enable your student to position themselves in the best spot. This is also helpful for interpreters, Lip Speakers, and note-taker professionals.

Advice for Students:

• Position yourself well within the classroom – 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 to help improve your access to what's working and what isn’t. Communication is vital for everyone involved in ensuring your educational experience is fully accessible to you.

• Check out Deaf Umbrella’s fantastic guide to ask for support here

• Give some notes to your teacher, explaining what you find helpful during lessons. Here's an example from me:

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:

1. Face me when speaking so I can lipread and follow your facial expressions.

2. Keep your position consistent when giving instructions — ideally standing or sitting in one spot rather than moving around.

3. Provide captions/subtitles on all videos, presentations, and online content.

4. Use my assistive technology — I use Bluetooth hearing aids and a Roger microphone (which you may need to wear when speaking).

5. 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]

Final Thoughts

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.

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.