Seating arrangements

Deaf persons need full visual access to you, to a smartboard of flipchart, and to the other participants. The best seating arrangement for full participation, engagement and access for the deaf person is to arrange chairs or desks in a "C" or “U” shape. This will allow the deaf person to see who is speaking and to participate fully in discussions.

When you are talking - don't walk back and forth too much. It will make it more difficult for the deaf person to keep track of you.

Group discussions, question and answer sessions, any activity that asks for student participation: make sure that the deaf person knows who is talking. Ask participants to raise their hand when they want to say something; ask everyone to wait for their turn and not to speak all at the same time; point to the person whose turn it is, and in larger groups: ask the person to stand up, before he/she starts talking.

Lighting is important too - the interpreter must be well-lit! Even when you are showing a video or want to create a cosy atmosphere.