Name: Functional Listening Evaluations That Matter
Start: 2026-09-14T11:00:00-0400
End: 2026-09-14T12:00:00-0400

Functional Listening Evaluations That Matter

Monday September 14, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT

502 East Event Centre

Session Description:
Learn practical strategies for Functional Listening Evaluations (FLEs) for students who are deaf or hard of hearing. Explore observation techniques and conduct a FLE incorporating varying conditions and tasks. Gain tools to gather information and meaningful IEP data and assist with student access in the educational environment.

Session Abstract:
Ensuring equitable access to language in educational settings is essential for students who are deaf or hard of hearing. This session provides educators with a structured, practical approach to conducting functional listening evaluations that go beyond standard administration. Participants will learn how to systematically assess real-world classroom conditions, starting with observation and then varying factors such as background noise, distance, technology use, visual supports, and academic complexity.

The session will explore strategies for incorporating various conditions within a Functional Listening Evaluation to reflect authentic listening and learning demands. By simulating the challenges students face in everyday environments, educators can better identify barriers and design interventions that truly support communication access.

Attendees will leave with actionable tools and templates to approach functional evaluations to generate meaningful data for Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). These evaluations help teams make informed decisions about accommodations, technology, and instructional practices that promote equity and success.

Whether you are a teacher, specialist, or administrator, this session will empower you to implement evaluations that prioritize student access and inclusion. Join us to learn how to transform observations into data-driven strategies that ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive academically and socially.

Session Goals:

Participants will identify at least five environmental variables (e.g., noise, distance, visual cues) that impact language access for students who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Participants will demonstrate the ability to design one functional language access evaluation plan that includes observation and varied conditions.
Participants will analyze sample functional listening evaluation reports and identify three specific recommendations for improving language access based on evaluation data.

Speakers

Sarah Kiefer, MAEd

Deaf Education Coordinator, Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education

Sarah Kiefer serves as the Deaf Education Coordinator at the Indiana Department of Health’s Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education. She has backgrounds in Deaf Education, Curriculum and Instruction, Technology Leadership, and Administration. Sarah oversees assessment and... Read More →

Monday September 14, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
502 East Event Centre 502 E Carmel Dr, Carmel, IN 46032, USA

Deaf/Hard of Hearing

INSAIL 2026

Sarah Kiefer, MAEd

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INSAIL 2026

Sarah Kiefer, MAEd

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