Classroom Acoustics and Personal FM Technology in Management of Auditory Processing Disorder

ABSTRACT

Acoustical conditions in the classroom, home, and social environments are often barriers to listening and learning for students with auditory processing disorder (APD). The effective management of APD requires careful attention to classroom acoustics and the use of personal frequency modulated (FM) systems as strategies to improve the quality of the listening environment and the student's access to acoustic information. As members of the multidisciplinary team responsible for both auditory assessment and management, audiologists have the responsibility to guide the evaluation of the listening environment and make recommendations for modifications, as well as the selection, fitting, and monitoring of personal FM technologies. Demonstrating efficacy is an essential part of the management process. Audiologists are challenged to contribute to the research base by collecting data to support the use of personal FM systems as an efficacious management strategy.

KEYWORDS

Auditory processing disorder - profiles - personal FM - classroom management

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