Low Tech
Finger spelling charts are an example of low tech assistive technology that can help students who are deaf. Teachers and students can communicate through sign language or finger spelling in class. It wouldn't have to be the only method of communication, but it could make a deaf child feel more welcome. A disadvantage of sign language is that it is a complex language, and it can take a while to learn. Another low tech assistive technology example is printed notes with visuals for students. If a teacher is planning on lecturing the students as a form of direct instruction, he/she could give a deaf student a printed version of the lecture with visuals so that the student can read what is being said. It would be beneficial for all lessons to be accompanied by visuals for the student. Printed outlines and notes from lessons can take a while to prepare and the student would miss out on side information that is not typed. If anyone in the class has questions, the student would miss out on hearing the question and the answer.
Mid Tech
Closed captioning can help students who are deaf understand videos, TV shows, or movies that are playing in the classroom. Students will be able to read what is being said at the bottom of the screen to help them comprehend what is happening. If a video is too fast-paced it may be hard for students who are deaf to fully understand a video. If there is a scene with a lot of people talking and a lot of background noise it may be difficult for a student to figure out what character is speaking and what is happening in the background. With the closed captioning at the bottom of a screen, the student may not be able to pay attention to any of the video and may have to focus on just reading the words. There may also be spelling mistakes making it hard for students to understand the dialogue.
High Tech
Deaf students have trouble communicating with their peers and their teachers in school because hearing people speak English and most deaf people speak sign language. Typing on an iPad can help deaf students interact with their hearing peers. Students who are deaf can use communication apps on an iPad or simply type a note to a classmate or teacher in order to communicate. Teachers can use blog assignments in class so that all students can actively participate the same way with each other during an assignment. Most iPads have auto-correct to avoid major spelling mistakes when communicating. Typing to communicate can be time consuming and emotions are not portrayed clearly through electronic communication.