Ear Plugs Demo

Give students the chance to experience what it is like to communicate with a hearing loss!

Idea at a glance

Wearing ear plugs to simulate hearing loss could provide a deeper understanding of what it means to live with a hearing impairment everyday.

Teachers, have students wear ear plugs during class and attempt to give them a short lecture. Ask them questions about the material you covered, and put them into groups where they need to communicate with each other. Students may become frustrated within the first 2-3 minutes, but the experience will ultimately enhance their understanding of living with hearing loss.

After conducting the demonstration, you could provide the children with information about how the ear works and how to prevent hearing loss.

Inspiration

To show students the deadly consequences of driving while intoxicated, schools often use impairment goggles. The goggles simulate the effects of being drunk, including confusion, visual distortion, slowed reaction time, and lack of coordination. By wearing the goggles, students can experience first-hand how difficult it is to manage situations while drunk, such as riding a bike or simply crossing a road.

Potential impact

Ear plugs are an easy way to demonstrate what hearing loss feels like. Students will not be able to hear the lecture or easily communicate with their classmates.

This experience can help students empathize with hearing impaired persons and understand the importance of protecting their hearing.