Teachers
Deaf children have specific communication needs and their teachers must ensure that all topics can be clearly followed in all classes. Visual cues and practical adaptation of routines will be important for including all students.
Teaching support at schools in Ireland is provided by:
The Visiting Teacher Service | information form |
The Special Education Support Service (SESS)
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE)
Some tips for including a deaf child in a mainstream classroom:
* Write page numbers on a black / white board, with the specific task
* Write any impending class tests, assignments or homework on the board
* Write key words, lesson outlines, new concepts etc, on the board
* Ensure the child has a clear view of yourself at all times
* Avoid turning your back to the class or walking around while talking
* If the class is reviewing work, give the child a handout with the answers
* When speaking at the board, face the class sideways to assist lip-reading
* Use subtitled videos in class, or give a copy of the script to the child
* The child will benefit if a class buddy can fill in any missed instructions
* Be practical about communication, but don’t treat the child differently
* Show an older child samples of how work / essays should be structured
* Minimise ambient classroom noise when possible
* If you have a moustache or beard, consider trimming it for lip-readers
* Re-state or rephrase what you say to the child if one repetition is missed
* If classmates are answering questions, try to recap what is said
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