The needs of children with hearing impairments in inclusive education
Introduction:
In today's education system, it is important to provide equal opportunities to every student. In this regard, the principle of Inclusive Education is gaining great importance. This principle has the noble intention that all types of children with disabilities should get education in the general education system.
In this article, let us discuss what are the needs of children with hearing impairment in inclusive education.
What is hearing impairment?:
Hearing impairment is a difficulty in hearing or understanding sounds adequately. It can be congenital or a result of a defect. Some children may have a slight hearing impairment, while others may have a complete hearing loss. Children with hearing impairment experience some difficulties in communication, language expression, and building social relationships.
Problems of children with hearing impairment:
1. Speech difficulties: Hearing impaired children cannot hear sounds clearly, making it difficult to learn to speak and communicate with others.
2. Language expression: Hearing impaired children have difficulty pronouncing words and understanding the meaning of sounds.
3. Social withdrawal: Such children often feel lonely and unable to socialize with other children.
4. Lack of self-confidence: Sometimes they feel humiliated because they cannot fully participate in the classroom.
Arrangements needed by children with hearing impairment:
1. Alternative methods of communication:
Learning needs to take place in a way that does not require normal spoken language. For example:
* Sign Language
* Lip Reading (the skill of understanding mouth movements by looking at them)
* Visual aids
2. Special aids:
Learning aids are very necessary for such children:
* Hearing Aid (hearing aid)
* FM Systems (a device that delivers the teacher's voice directly to the child's ears)
* Computer-based applications and video lessons
3. Support that can be given to hearing-impaired children in the classroom:
Sit the children in the front row so that the teacher's mouth is clearly visible.
Teachers should use more visual aids.
There should be less noise pollution during the lesson.
Pictures, charts, presentations should be used instead of words.
4. Individual guidance and language training:
* Children with hearing impairment may need the help of speech therapists.
* The process of children learning to speak should be systematic.
* Teachers and parents should give children daily speaking practice.
Role of teachers:
The success of integrated education largely depends on the understanding of teachers. Teachers should do the following:
* Individual Education Plan (IEP) should be prepared for children with hearing impairment.
* Lesson plan should be designed differently and visual teaching materials should be used.
* Sign language and silent communication skills should be developed with students.
* An attitude of empathy and cooperation should be developed among the students in the classroom.
Role of parents:
Parental cooperation is also necessary in equal measure:
* Children should be trained in sign language or natural communication at home as well.
* There should be constant interaction with teachers about school lectures and curricula.
* Children should be encouraged to increase their self-confidence.
Responsibility of society and government:
* Technical assistance, devices, and the appointment of trained teachers are necessary for children with hearing impairment in government and private schools.
* Equal respect and opportunities should be provided to such children in society.
* A model should be established to sincerely include children with hearing impairment in education.
Conclusion:
Inclusive education is not just a principle, it is a practical right. Children with hearing impairment need encouragement and support at every stage of education. They too have the right to learn, they also have the opportunity to grow. Only when we, teachers, parents and society join hands, will they be able to step towards the light.
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