Title: Unit 3 Lecture
Course: 14SP-HIS-150-GWB2-HEAR. INSTRU. FITTING METHODS > Section: Lessons

Unit 3 Lecture

I know it is alreadyFriday of week three!  The course shell didn’t have any additional information in the notes or PP section.  I have struggled to find information I though you would find useful at this point in your coursework without making it too complicated.  I settled on a few pages from the Taylor and Mueller book that is on your textbook list for this program but not for this course.  If you happen to already have this book, you can read the pages I cited in the powerpoint.  This is an excellent reference book for anyone who is training as a hearing instrument specialist.  There are lots of practical nuggets in this book.  I can’t remember which course it is used for off the top of my head so if you do not have it, no need to rush out and purchase it.  You have to buy enough textbooks for each course you are taking.  I have summarized their comments from the pages I cited to make the information in this unit more practical for what you will or have seen in clinic.

It is important that you learn how hearing instrument fittings have evolved by learning the history of various procedures, technologies, etc. but is it also important to check when the information what written.  Things have changed quickly and some concepts have changed dramatically.  For example the McSpaden & Brethower
textbook talks about the importance of binaural fittings and that more professionals should fit binaural where today binaural fittings are the norm.

You may also be wondering why the course has focused so much on anatomy and physiology review up to this point.  To really understand how best to fit hearing instruments you must have a good understanding of the auditory system and how hearing loss affects that system.  Only then can you start to understand the
various philosophies and options for amplification.  In my opinion that is one of the many distinct advantages you have by being in this program rather than some sort of independent training program to licensure. You will have a solid base of information with input from multiple dispensing professionals who want you to be successful in this profession.  Your future patients will also appreciate your dedication to knowledge in the profession. It will show in your professionalism and the way you approach each patient so they will be successful utilizing amplification.

The midterm is coming up quickly.  Make sure you are prepared for where you will take this exam.  Remember it is a proctored exam.  Check the dates and times I have posted in the Syllabus and in this unit.  I’m confident you all will do great!