Assessing the impact of COVID-19 precautions on classroom communication for adolescents with hearing loss: a qualitative study

During the COVID-19 pandemic, public health measures such as mandatory masks and social distancing can be challenging for people with hearing loss. In BC, masks became mandatory in all indoor spaces in middle and high schools. For adolescents with hearing loss these measures may have an impact on communication with peers and teachers. This qualitative interview study will investigate the experiences of adolescents, both with and without hearing loss, at school before and during the COVID 19 pandemic. We are interested in any potential limitations and benefits in communicating and possible ways the limitations could be overcome in the future.