Deaf and hard of hearing resources

If you are deaf or manage hearing loss, it is important to reach out to the DRC as soon as you enrol at Deakin so we can explore timely and appropriate support with you if needed.

The DRC can provide Auslan interpreters, note takers, live captioning and access to a range of assistive technology tools to improve your access to all aspects of your course.

Here are 9 tips to get you started (do let us know if you think of other tips!).

1. Make an appointment with the DRC as soon as possible after you enrol or accept your offer, so that we can discuss strategies and supports to enhance independent access to learning. If you would like an Auslan interpreter for your appointment with the DRC, please let us know at the time of booking your appointment so this can be organised.
2. Auto-generated captions and transcripts are available on almost all lecture recordings. Check out our video for a step-by step guide on how to turn on captions and download transcripts in Panopto, the video platform used by Deakin.
3. Some students may require enhanced editing of video captions and transcripts. Always let your DLO know if the autogenerated content is not sufficient for your needs.
4. If you are an on-campus student, consider your preferred seating within a room. As you know, lighting, glare and background noise all impact learning so seat location can be important. Speak to your academics if you have trouble accessing a preferred seat in rooms.
5. Your Access Plan can highlight the need for teaching staff to face the room and for class members to speak one at a time. Always approach your teaching staff if you feel this is not working, or let your DLO know if you do not feel comfortable to initiate the conversation.
6. Most lecture theatres across Deakin campuses have Hearing Loop technology. There are 3 types of hearing loops for students with a hearing disability:
   • under floor audio loop (only available in selected venues)
   • infra-red hearing loops
   • wireless hearing assistance (via a phone app)

   All rooms with hearing augmentation will have signage – if your lecturer is not sure how to use the technology, let them know the receivers can either be found on a charging dock on the presentation desk or in one of the drawers. Headphones and loops for these receivers are located in the presentation desk drawer, or those accessing the hearing loop can use their own headphones.

7. If you are an online student, you can pin speakers in your zoom chat and action auto-captions for live streamed sessions.
8. If you have concerns about academic writing and referencing, Deakin's Language and Learning advisors can be a very useful resource for students. Auslan interpreters can be arranged for these appointments if needed.
9. Always speak to your DLO if you are experiencing difficulty accessing information or managing other elements of your course.