The effect of frequency-modulation systems on the communication skills of deaf–blind children

Abstract

Classrooms and other public places provide a poor acoustical environment for individuals who have a hearing loss, and it is often difficult for them to discriminate between the speaker and background noise with a hearing aid. The use of a frequency-modulation (FM) system can often reduce this problem by providing a constant sound pressure level of the speaker’s voice. The effect of FM systems on communication skills of deaf–blind children was investigated using a single-subject alternating treatment design. There was a marked improvement for a number of the subjects in the FM condition. The results will be discussed along with individual case studies. FM technology has exploded. A relatively new type of FM receiver is now available which combines the hearing aid and FM in a single behind-the-ear unit (BTE/FM). The most recent development is a ‘‘boot’’ attachment which changes a standard over-the-ear hearing aid into a FM system. An overview of these FM systems will be presented. [Work supported by OSERS.]