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Utilizing an FM System |
Hearing aids amplify all surrounding sounds. As a result, the student might be
hearing the students sitting next to him/her more than the teacher’s voice.
With an FM system, the teacher is equipped with a microphone and transmitter and
the student is equipped with a receiver and either an FM neck loop (the child
places it around his/her neck) or boots (the student connects them to his/her
hearing aids). Digital FM systems are completely wireless (no wires from boots
or loops), allowing the user to “blend in.”
When properly utilized, FM systems can deliver an improvement in signal to noise ratio for a child with hearing loss, and make communication easier for everyone. When teachers, parents, or caregivers are utilizing an FM system to enable a deaf or hard of hearing child to hear, there are a few important points to remember:
Seat the child appropriately in the classroom (front), and face the classroom when speaking.
Make sure the student knows how to use the FM system and has his/her hearing aids turned to “T” (telecoil) if using the neck loop.
Make sure the lapel microphone is clipped toward the center of the body, no further than six inches from the mouth.
Eliminate noise that might be created by scarves, necklaces, and other articles of clothing rubbing against the lapel microphone. The child will hear a constant scratching sound in his or her ear, and most likely will not be able to tell anyone that the FM system or auditory trainer is not sounding right. A boom microphone worn with a headpiece is ideal, but is not always available or feasible.
Speak in a normal tone of voice into the microphone.
Keep items from rubbing against the microphone.
When helping other students, the teacher should turn off the system. Otherwise, the student will hear these conversations while s/he is trying to work.
During classroom discussions, either have the student set their FM system to environmental and FM, or repeat student comments. Otherwise, the student will not hear the other students’ contributions to the discussion.
For in-class discussions pass the transmitter to the speaker or, if working in small groups place it in a central location (e.g. the middle of the table).
An FM system will usually transmit for a distance of approximately 45 meters. The clarity of the signal and the amount of information received depend on the student's loss and ability to process the information he or she hears.
Encourage speakers in assemblies to wear the microphone.
Encourage the student to take responsibility for the daily charging of the equipment, as appropriate. Either you, or another adult or older student will need to check that it is in good working order each morning.
It is necessary to have a ready supply of batteries available. Your student is expected to provide them for his/her personal hearing aids.
Ask your audiologist for a checklist to assist with troubleshooting the equipment. Keeping it close to the area where the system is charged is helpful for other adults working with you.
Be aware of the procedure for repair of equipment and check to see if there is a loan process while the malfunctioning equipment is out for repair.
Reference: Special Education Service Agency