How to create an inclusive environment for your Deaf student

For many teachers and lecturers, the 2024/25 academic year may mark the first time they have a Deaf student in their classroom. While this can seem daunting, it’s a wonderful opportunity to enrich the learning environment. Deaf culture is vibrant and engaging, and embracing it can benefit everyone in the classroom.

Here’s how to create an inclusive and accessible learning environment for your Deaf students:

➤ Learn Basic Sign Language

You don’t need to become a fluent signer overnight. Learning basic signs, like "My name is…" or "Good morning," can make your Deaf student feel welcomed and enhance the classroom experience for everyone.

➤ Understand Support Tools

Your deaf or hard of hearing student may use different support to listen, communicate and participate more fully such as hearing aids or an Interpreter.

If your deaf student is using an Interpreter service, you will need to understand that Interpreters and Communication Support Workers are certified professionals who train for many years to do their job and who abide by a Code of Ethics. They are not your substitute; they facilitate communication between you and your class and the deaf/hard of hearing student.

Learn here what is included in their role and what is not: https://www.deafumbrella.com/post/communication-support-worker-in-education

✨TOP TIP: Ensure your staff are well-equipped to support deaf students effectively - We offer CPD training for Communication Support Workers (CSWs) that will not only enhance your team's skills but also contribute to the academic and personal growth of your students. For more details and to book a session, please visit: Deaf Umbrella CPD Training.

➤ Effective Communication with Interpreters

• Maintain direct eye contact and speak naturally. The interpreter will manage the pace and clarify if needed.

• Look and speak directly to the deaf student, not the interpreter, e.g.. don't say "Has she done her homework?" but rather, "Have you done your homework?".

• Allow time for the student to process and respond during discussions.

• Avoid private conversations in the presence of the interpreter.

Read our basic guidelines about how to work with a Sign Language Interpreter here.

➤ Adapt Teaching Materials

Provide written handouts and visual aids to support your Deaf student's learning. Bullet points and clear visuals can help ensure they don’t miss any important information.

➤ Optimise the Classroom Environment

There is a functional relationship between the physical environment and both an increase in levels of academic engagement and a decrease in levels of disruptive behaviour.

• Ensure your Deaf student has a clear view of you, the interpreter, and any visual aids.

• Arrange desks in a semi-circle if possible, or have the student sit where they can see everything.

• Minimise background noise and ensure adequate lighting, especially if using projectors.

➤ Use Informative Posters

Download posters on how to communicate with Deaf individuals and get their attention effectively.

We hope that the tips above help you to understand and to create an inclusive environment for your deaf or HoH students.

This is a great opportunity for both you and your students to access and learn from Deaf culture. Your positive attitude can help ensure an excellent experience for all, and really make a difference.

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