In a recent Learning Counsel white paper, research was carried out to explore how audio enhancements, including headphones and headsets, are important tools in today’s in-person, hybrid and remote learning environments. While examining this topic, 5 notable reasons emerged as to why audio devices are essential to learning- and they focus primarily on accessibility.
Throughout this in-depth examination, time is taken to compare personal audio accessibilities values, as well as key features of headsets and headphones that are most useful depending on the setting.
In addition to this, we see how much the learning environment has shifted to make audio solutions essential components of the learning experience, and markedly, how the future of learning requires engagement and focus that is assisted by listening devices.
5 Reasons Audio Devices Are Essential for Learning
The distribution of audio devices with the same functional capabilities promotes digital equity on a level that affects future success among students. Of the other reasons audio technologies are an important part of curriculums, the Learning Counsel lists increased focus and consistency across testing outcomes.
This is especially true when utilizing headsets- audio devices that include a microphone. With the addition of a microphone with noise-canceling qualities, speech recognition and voice recording for ESL, ELA or fluency assessments produce a better result than without.
In a similar respect, headset models with noise-reducing earpads help limit background noise and distractions for a more effective and focused listening experience.
An Essential Audio Ingredient
With the number of distractions and content being consumed in today’s society, audio devices provide assistance to both teachers and students in their academic goals. However, as of last year, audio technologies have not yet become a priority among most schools, but that may be changing.
Only 30 percent of schools and districts have purchased audio enhancing technologies, 31 percent plan to purchase, 20 percent are considering audio technologies and 19 percent are not considering a purchase. This national disparity in relaying the audio portion of learning resources that need them means that high numbers of students lack accessibility.
The Learning Counsel’s 2021 national Digital Transition Survey
Read the full report below to see the additional reasons audio is essential to the classroom, what to look for when choosing devices for your learning needs, as well as the ways audio enhancements provide much needed assistance at vital steps in the learning journey.
Hover over or click the document to download and see more viewing options.
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