Most common assistive listening devices used in the classroom
Sound Field Systems
While students receive the academic advantages of an amplified classroom, teachers can get every students attention day after day without ever having to raise their voice. Students can listen and learn, and simultaneously, teachers can reduce voice fatigue through amplification for a free field sound system. Studies have shown that sound field systems not only help students with mild to moderate hearing loss to learn better, but also those with auditory learning disabilities, auditory attention deficits, and other auditory processing problems learn better as well.
FM Systems
Large Area FM Systems are used for group listening in auditoriums, theaters, places of worship, cinemas, etc. These systems have a transmitter that connects to the existing sound system. The program is broadcast throughout the listening area. Students use a personal receiver and earphone or telecoil coupler to pick up the broadcast. This allows the students to hear the program directly from the sound system and bypasses background noise and distance from the sound source. These products require specific installation and familiarity with sound system equipment. A large area FM might be seen in a school auditorium.
Loop Systems
Based on a principle of electronics called electromagnetics, these systems are easily used by those having hearing aids equipped with a telecoil circuit. The technology consists of a loop wire that is placed around a listening area. The primary speaker uses a special amplifier and microphone. Speech signals are amplified and circulated through the loop wire. Those wearing telecoil-equipped hearing aids can pick up the resulting energy field and have it amplified by the telecoil. Those who don’t have telecoil-equipped hearing aids can use special receivers with earphones to pick up the magnetic signal. It is easy to install, and can be used in classrooms and small meeting rooms.