Objective: To design and produce a comprehensive series of inservice videos to empower general education teachers with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to create inclusive and supportive learning environments for students who are deaf, deafblind, or hard of hearing (DHH). Recognizing the critical role of accessibility in the success of DHH students, the series addresses key topics to promote effective teaching practices and collaboration.
Delivery and Contents: The project is structured as a multi-part video series, delivered digitally to maximize accessibility and ease of use for educators. This training utilizes a video format to provide accessible and easily digestible information, covering key topics such as:
Understanding the spectrum of hearing loss and its impact on learning.
The role of the DHH teacher in supporting students and classroom teachers.
Classroom accommodations and modifications to create an accessible learning environment (e.g., seating, noise reduction, communication strategies).
Overview of listening assistive technology (hearing aids, cochlear implants, microphone systems) and its effective use.
Strategies for promoting language development, self-advocacy, and academic success for DHH students.
Guidance on collaborating with ASL interpreters/transliterators.
Deaf/Hard of Hearing Inservice
Animated instructional video
Data and Impact:
Efficiency and Time Savings: The video has allowed teachers of DHH students to connect with teachers much faster than traveling to many school buildings, saving time and money, while increasing impact.
Increased Teacher Competency: The series has equipped teachers with practical skills and strategies, leading to greater confidence and competence in supporting DHH students.
Improved Classroom Practices: The videos has promoted the implementation of UDL principles and evidence-based practices, resulting in more accessible and engaging instruction for all learners.
Enhanced Communication: The series has fostered more effective communication between teachers, students, DHH specialists, and families, leading to better collaboration and support.
Greater Student Success: By addressing access barriers and promoting effective teaching strategies, the series has contributed to improved academic outcomes and increased social-emotional well-being for DHH students.
Positive Feedback and Adoption: The user-friendly video format and practical content has encouraged widespread adoption and positive feedback from educators.
Long-Term Impact on Inclusion: The series has contributed to a more inclusive school culture where the needs of all learners are met, and diversity is celebrated.