Journal of Phonetics & Audiology
Open Access

Abstract

A Survey of K-12 Educators Regarding Awareness of Hearing Loss, Devices and Resources

Kimberly W. Ward, Charles G. Marx, Edward Goshorn, Courtney G. Turner and Karen Bell

The purpose of this study was to assess educators’ awareness of the effects of hearing loss on a child and the resources available these children. A 10-item questionnaire regarding the effects of hearing loss on a child, awareness of different physical accommodations/modifications for a child with hearing loss, and awareness of amplification devices as well as demographic questions was sent to 9,481 educators employed in the Mississippi public schools. 735 educators responded, although less than ten percent, there are some conclusions that may be drawn on the responses that were provided. The findings support a need for additional communication of information regarding hearing loss, its effects, and amplification options. Implications of these findings for educators, audiologists, and speech-language pathologists are discussed.