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Purpose: USNH Learning Space Technologies provides Assistive Listening Systems/Devices in large classrooms where audio reinforcement may be necessary for audience members who are hard of hearing.
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| Intended Audience: Community members needing Assistive Listening accommodation in their classroom or learning space |
| Environment: Classrooms or learning spaces with Assistive Listening Systems installed |
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Scope of Article: Assistive Listening Systems (ALSs) are sometimes called Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs). Essentially they are amplifiers that bring sound directly into the ear. They separate the sounds, particularly speech, that a person wants to hear from background noise. They improve what is known as the "speech to noise ratio."
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Why Are ALSs Necessary?
Research indicates that people who are hard of hearing require a volume (signal to noise ratio) increase of about 15 to 25 dB in order to achieve the same level of understanding as people with normal hearing. An ALS allows them to achieve this gain for themselves without making it too loud for everyone else.
(Source: National Association of the Deaf)
How do I use the ALSs?
Retrieve the device from instructor podium or storage cubby. Insert headphone plug into the headphone jack, turn volume dial until device turns on. Adjust volume to comfortable level. When finished, turn volume dial to OFF position.
The exact ALD brand/model in your room may differ slightly depending on location. All function in the same fashion.
Need to request new batteries or for assistance using the device? Submit an LST Support request: https://td.usnh.edu/TDClient/60/Portal/Requests/ServiceDet?ID=183
Which classrooms are equipped with ALSs?
University of New Hampshire: UNH spaces with ALS list
Keene State College: Science 101
Plymouth State University: Merrill Place A and B, AllWell Field House
Further Readings:
UNH Student Accessibility Services home page: https://www.unh.edu/studentaccessibility
Accessible UNH home page: https://www.unh.edu/affirmativeaction/accessible-unh