What are typical accommodations for students who are deaf or hard of hearing?

Date Updated
05/24/22

Although each situation is different and the student is the best source of information regarding useful accommodations, the following accommodations are typical for a student who is deaf or hard of hearing:

  • Interpreter, real-time captioning
  • FM system
  • Note taker
  • Open- or closed-captioned films, use of visual aids
  • Written assignments, lab instructions, demonstration summaries
  • Visual warning system for lab emergencies
  • Hand written notes for individual communication
  • Having group members raise hands to be recognized, so that the person who is deaf knows who is speaking
  • Use of electronic mail for class and private discussions

Additional communication hints include facing students when speaking so that they can read your lips and speaking clearly and at a normal volume; speak more loudly only if requested.

For more information about accommodating students with disabilities, consult Working Together: Faculty and Students with Disabilities.