Adjustments in the classroom can make a big difference to your child’s learning. They are crucial in giving your child equal access to education. However, adjustments need to be reasonable and not negatively impact other students or be unaffordable. Adjustments should be negotiated with the school and support staff each year or more often as needed. It is good to encourage your child’s involvement in these meetings from an early age. Common adjustments in the classroom include:
- Access to Auslan interpreters or note-takers.
- Use of assistive devices such as FM systems.
- Seating arrangements in the classroom.
- Adjustments to classrooms such as lighting, carpeting, installation of soundfield systems.
- Choosing to teach in quieter classrooms where possible.
- Use of captions for videos.
- Use of visual aids.
- Written handouts for information regarding assessments or homework.
- Teach and encourage other students to use some basic Auslan signs.
- Modifications required for assessments – extra time, rest breaks, interpreters, separate room.
- Provision of transcripts.
- Introduce a buddy system.
- Allow for lip reading by facing student, speaking clearly and not covering the mouth.
- Introduce new subject-specific words to students and Auslan interpreter before the lesson.
Download the Real Life Tips infographic.
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