Benefits of Classroom Voice Amplification Systems and How to Buy One
Clear and effective communication is a vital aspect of teaching and learning. If communication isn’t clear, the chances of the students comprehending what is being taught are quite slim. This is why teachers often do everything possible to ensure every member of their class hears and understands what is being taught.
One of the ways to ensure communication is effective and clear is by making sure you are loud enough to be heard by everyone in the class. It is because of this that teachers often use classroom voice amplification systems to make their voices as loud as possible. If you have decided to get one for your classroom but you do not know how to go about it, then you are right where you need to be.
In this read, we will discuss the various factors you need to consider when buying a classroom voice amplification system. If you consider these factors when shopping for this system, you will be able to buy the best one that will suit the conditions of your classroom. We will also discuss what this system is, and the benefits attached to using it in your class. This would help you make up your mind if you are still on the fence about getting one.
What Do Classroom Voice Amplification Systems Mean?
A classroom voice amplification system is equipment that is used in classrooms to ensure everyone in the room can properly hear what the teacher says. Typically, this system is made up of different equipment like the microphone, amplifier, and speakers. All these are connected via appropriate connectors.
The way this system works is quite simple. The teacher speaks into the microphone which then sends the sound to the speaker which makes the sound louder. There are so many reasons why this equipment is necessary in the classroom, and we’d look at some of these reasons below.
Benefits of a Classroom Voice Amplification System
There are so many benefits of using this equipment as a teacher. Knowing these benefits will help you decide if you are still doubtful about getting the system for your classroom. With that said, the following are some of the major advantages of using this equipment.
Reduces Vocal Fatigue
If you teach without any voice amplification aid, you will need to put more strain on your voice to make sure all your students hear you. This may seem like nothing, especially if you are used to it already, but vocal strain can be quite telling on your health. It can leave you with a hoarse throat and headaches at the end of the day.
Helps Special Needs Students
If you have students with special needs, you know that you have to do everything possible to help them have a good learning experience. You can visit https://www.edweek.org/ to learn some strategic ways to help special needs students. Not using a voice amplification tool in a class with a special needs student (like students with dyslexia or hearing impairment) can be a major learning hindrance for the student.
Improves Student’s Comprehension
When your students cannot hear everything you say, they may not fully comprehend what is being taught. Some students may even become less attentive and divert their attention to something else when they cannot hear what you are saying. These can be avoided by using a system that allows everyone in the class to hear every word that you say. When this happens, the students will have a better chance of understanding the material because they don’t have to guess what you may or may have not said.
Improves Classroom Management
Students would be more attentive when an authoritative voice is speaking to them. They would have no choice but to listen to what is being taught because the voice is clear and loud enough to quell certain disruptive behavior. You can give out clear instructions and know for sure that everyone will hear you. This would make your classroom more organized and coordinated.
Things to Consider When Buying a Classroom Voice Amplification System
There are so many factors you need to consider when buying this equipment. If you just buy a system without considering these factors, you may not get the best equipment for you. Therefore, when buying this equipment, ensure that you consider the following factors.
Your Classroom Layout and Size
Classrooms often come in different shapes and sizes. If you buy a system without considering the peculiarities of your classroom, you may end up with equipment that won’t give the desired result. If the area is big, you will need a powerful system whereas a less powerful one may be suitable for a smaller area.
The System’s Volume and Sound Quality
Another thing you need to consider as you shop is the system’s volume and sound quality. You want your students to hear everything you say clearly. So, the equipment you decide on must have a clear and crisp sound quality free of feedback and distortion.
Portability and Usability
You may need to move the equipment around the room when teaching. Therefore, you also need to consider its portability. Also, consider its usability; if using it won’t be easy, you do not want to get it.
Power Source/Battery Life
You want a system that will last you throughout the entire day. Not one that will die on you halfway through your day and force you to strain your voice. This is why you need to consider the battery life or the power source when shopping. If the equipment needs to be connected to a power source when in use, then make sure this does not affect its portability.
Reviews
You also need to find out what other people think about the product you are considering. You can do this by reading online reviews; but know that some reviews can be fake, so take your time to properly evaluate the reviews. You can check this article to learn how to evaluate reviews. It’ll also help to check 3rd party sites for reviews rather than reading the reviews on the product’s website.
Conclusion
Having a voice amplification system in your classroom can make all the difference in how much attention your students pay to you. But for you to enjoy this benefit and several others, you need to get the best system. Some factors to consider to get the best product are the layout and size of your classroom, the system’s volume and sound quality, portability, battery life, and reviews.