Special Education
Hard of Hearing and Deaf Students:
A Resource Guide to Support Classroom Teachers
Student Interviews
You may find your student who is hard of hearing or deaf needs opportunities to respond to direct questions or to ask for clarification in a quiet welcoming environment. Questions focusing on social needs and self esteem are particularly important due to the very nature of any degree of hearing loss. As hearing loss does impede communication you need to be alert to both your student's understanding of spoken language, and reading of body language, in social settings. Misunderstanding can result in difficulties interacting with peers or the student feeling a sense of frustration and isolation. All students need a sense of belonging. Your student who is hard of hearing or deaf may need a little additional support to build that social network.
Sample Questions
- Who are you playing with/forming friendships with?
- Are you enjoying lunch/recess breaks? Are you aware of the kinds of things you might do at lunch time/recess? (clubs, sports, games, etc.) Do you know how to get involved in these activities? What can I do to help you participate
- Do you feel at times that you need someone to talk to? Do you know who you can ask for help?
- How well do you think the buddy system is working?
- Are there any things I need to know about your hearing aids or your auditory training equipment?
- If you could change some things about the classroom/school what would they be?
- Are you comfortable working with the interpreter/teaching assistant?
- Do you feel comfortable letting me know when you need help? Is there a way we can be sure I know you need help?
- Let us review what we have done (review individual education plan).
- What do you feel you most need to work on?
- Are there any questions you would like to ask or anything you think I should know to help you learn better?
