Assistive Listening Systems

Learning Spaces Technology [LST] has designed and installed Assistive Listening Systems [ALS] in select University Classroom [UCR] locations on The University of Iowa campus. While there are several types of ALS, LST has focused on designing and installing systems using the audio frequency induction loop [AFIL]. This system is also known as a “hearing loop system” and consists of various audio inputs [microphones and computer workstations] integrated into a space’s A/V system, an audio loop driver component for transmission to a space-installed induction loop, and various types of audio loop receivers.

The 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design defines an Assistive Listening System [ALS] as, “an amplification system utilizing transmitters, receivers, and coupling devices to bypass the acoustical space between a sound source and a listener by means of induction loop, radio frequency, infrared, or direct-wired equipment.”

As a system in classrooms, AFIL components combine to create an assistive listening technology transmitting accessible audio signals via the induction loop’s emitted magnetic field to compatible listening loop receivers, hearing aids, and cochlear implants. More specifically, AFIL systems are designed for use with Telecoil compatible [also known as, “T-Coil,” “T-Switch,” or “’T’-setting”] hearing aids, cochlear implants, or loop listeners/receivers. Please note that audio frequency induction loop systems provide an unencrypted, open signal available to anyone with a compatible hearing aid, cochlear implant, or loop listener or receiver.

AFIL-equipped locations provide a minimum of two listening loop receivers for every space, and one additional listening loop receiver for every 25-person capacity above 50 [for example, a space with a capacity between 1-50 would require a minimum of two available listening loop receivers, a space with a capacity between 51-75 would require three available listening loop receivers and a 76-100 capacity space would require four available listening loop receivers, and so forth]. Additionally, AFIL-equipped locations are dentified with the International Symbol for Hearing Loss signage, both visually and tactilely.

For additional information on Assistive Listening System installations on campus, please schedule a consultation with LST's resident Communications Infrastructure Architect and Engineers.

Learning Spaces Design & Installation Consultation

UCR Locations

There are currently 20 UCR locations with installed Assistive Listening Systems throughout campus; however, please be aware of additional ALS-equipped spaces [non-UCR] on UI campus [see UI Facilities Management information].

Assistive Listening System UCR Location Information

Troubleshooting

If UCR does not display appropriate International Symbol for Hearing Loss signage, please report immediately to ITS Help Desk
If UCR has inappropriate number of available Assistive Listening System listening receivers, or require batteries, please report immediately to ITS Help Desk
If hearing loop-capable UCR has no Assistive Listening System audio available, or audio is poor, please report immediately to ITS Help Desk