SPEECH READING

Speech reading is another method used by Deaf persons to understand the spoken word. In this process the receiver watches the lips and non-manual features (facial expressions, body language) and supportive signs of the speaker, and “reads” the message from the different movements of the lips, non-manual features and supportive signs and mouth.

This process is very difficult, and requires lots of patience and training. Usually, this mode of communication is used by people who became Deaf after acquiring spoken language. A good knowledge of a spoken language is of importance to the speech reader, and it is also important that the face of the speaker is free from any hindrance or obstruction.

The Centre of Knowledge can provide guidance in this matter to help persons who rely on this mode of communication.