Skype+and+Hearing+Impairment


 * Skype and Hearing Impairment **

As with any individual, a hearing impaired person or student can benefit from the one-on-one interaction made possible by Skype. Skype allows for direct communication between individuals and groups. All that is needed is an internet connection and a computer or mobile device. Students can talk with their teachers, classmates, and even experts from around the world. Skype can provide opportunities for tutoring involving teacher-student or student-student.

Hearing impaired students or even aging adults could be limited in Skype interactions. They would be able to see the other individual or members of the group but have difficulty or be unable to hear them or limited in speaking with them. This would be a major impediment to using the Skype technology for educational purposes or just communicating with friends and family.

The hearing impaired have been able to modify their experience using Skype. Some have used sign language to communicate directly while others are able to use assistive technologies which have been built into Skype including Skype Translator. “Skype Translator began as a translation service but has turned out to be an invaluable assistive listening device”(AARP). The hearing impaired have found this technology to be an empowering tool in education, business, and their personal lives.

Sources: [|__http://blog.aarp.org/2015/11/18/the-skype-solution-for-the-deaf-and-hard-of-hearing/__] [|__https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edbK3CWBA9k__] [|__https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QH3zpsQma9c__]