3 Essential Best Practices for Maximizing the Impact and Value of K-12 Audio Solutions
Written by: Elizabeth Woodard | February 8, 2023
Posted to: Learning
Audio solutions—like headphones and headsets—are critical tools in today’s learning environments. From increasing focus and engagement in early learners to engaging students in various instructional modalities, audio solutions are essential for ensuring every student can hear well and be heard.
Here, we are highlighting best practices for maximizing the impact and value of K-12 audio solutions in three easy tips.
Tip #1: Integrate audio solutions across subject areas, grade levels, and instructional modalities
Audio solutions can be used as a tool for both instruction and play from preschool through university and beyond. With a wide range of audio programming available—like audiobooks, podcasts, blended curriculum, and music—audio solutions can be implemented across subject areas and grade levels to enhance student focus and development.
Tip #2: Invest in solutions that meet even the strictest testing and assessment requirements
Audio solutions eliminate many distractions that can impede students’ ability to focus during testing and state assessments. In many states, headphones and headsets are required for certain assessments—like the M-STEP in Michigan, for example. In addition to selecting solutions that have noise canceling and/or noise reduction capabilities, K-12 leaders should confirm local requirements are met. Selecting a standard audio solution to use during assessments also ensures consistency and an equal opportunity for all students to succeed. Prior to investing in headsets, headphones, and other solutions, school and district leaders should confirm they are built for everyday use by students. Considering the safety and durability of headphones, headsets, and similar products are key.
Tip #3: Support and engage every student—regardless of where they’re at on their learning journey
Listening is essential for learning from infancy to adulthood. Investing in audio solutions that are safe, durable, and affordable can help educators support learners of all kinds reach their full potential. More than just an accompaniment, audio solutions enhance the experience and student engagement in conjunction with today’s digital curriculum and can make the difference between roadblocks and success for a student.
Maximizing the impact and value of K-12 audio solutions
To learn more about the impact of audio on student learning, check out these other posts: