DISTANCE LEARNING FOR PROFESSIONALS IN HEARING HEALTH SCIENCES COURSE
Learn the fundamentals. Go at your own pace. Prepare for your licensing exam(s).
Gain the fundamental knowledge and valuable skills you need for a successful career in hearing healthcare. Coupled with hands-on training, the IHS Distance Learning for Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences course will prepare aspiring hearing aid specialists for their licensing examination(s) and independent professional practice.
WHY USE THIS COURSE?
Flexibility
We know your schedule can be busy, which is why the pacing of this course is up to you! On average, trainees complete the course and earn the Certificate of Completion in around 6 months. Plus, adding on e-books will give you digital access to the books to study anywhere, anytime.
Interactive Learning
Get additional practice with important and complex topics through new exercises included for each lesson. Some exercises are printed activities in the Workbook and others are included in the online learning system. Trainers also get copies of the exercises, training tips, and the answer keys!
Exam Preparation
Get the most effective preparation for licensing exams by completing the Distance Learning course at the same time as hands on training. Plus, through the chapter tests and final exam, gain practice answering questions in a similar style to licensing exams.
Top Tier Training
Trainers get task lists, tips, exercise answers, and competency assessments that make training apprentices a breeze. With the Trainer Manual, 4th Edition, there is no guesswork or reinventing the wheel needed.
Are you enrolled in the 2016 Edition (the blue and orange books)?
Click here to learn more about your next steps for completing the course.
Questions? Email us at education@ihsinfo.org.
DISTANCE LEARNING COURSE PRICING
Student Course Only
Includes:
- Professional Training Textbook
- Professional Training Workbook
- Online Learning System
IHS Member Price
$739
(save $30 as an IHS member!)
Non-Member Price
$769
NEW!
Student Course + e-books
Includes:
- Entire Student Course
- Textbook e-book access for one
- Workbook e-book access for one
IHS Member Price
$899
(save $30 as an IHS member!)
Non-Member Price
$929
Full Kit
Includes the Student Course PLUS the Trainer Package
- Professional Training Textbook, Professional Training Workbook, and online learning system
- Trainer Manual (4th Edition)
- Online Trainer Toolbox
IHS Member Price
$999
(save $50 as an IHS member!)
Non-Member Price
$1,049
NEW!
Full Kit + e-books
Includes:
- Entire Full Kit
- Textbook e-book access for one
- Workbook e-book access for one
- Trainer Manual 4th Edition e-book access for one
IHS Member Price
$1199
(save $50 as an IHS member!)
Non-Member Price
$1,249
Not a Member? IHS Membership offers discounts on product purchases, complimentary resources, special offers through our partners, and much more. Join now and save!
Trainer Manual (4th Edition)
The Trainer Manual guides the trainer/mentor by providing an overview of the content in the student course paired with trainer-specific tips and tricks.
Online Trainer Toolbox
An online platform designed specifically for the trainer. It includes hand-picked resources to help make training easy, plus copies of the student interactive exercises. This valuable system is updated regularly.
KEY FEATURES:
NEW INTERACTIVE EXERCISES AND
ANSWER KEYS
TRAINER TASK AND
SKILL PRACTICE
CALL-OUTS
PROGRESS AND COMPETENCY ASSESSMENTS
CONSTANTLY
GROWING
LIBRARY
Trainer Package Only Pricing
Trainer Package only
IHS Member Price
$309
(save $20 as an IHS member!)
Non-Member Price
$329
NEW!
Trainer Package + e-book
IHS Member Price
$389
(save $20 as an IHS member!)
Non-Member Price
$409
Not a Member? IHS Membership offers discounts on product purchases, complimentary resources, special offers through our partners, and much more. Join now and save!
WHY E-BOOKS?
You asked, and we listened!
For the first time, customers can add e-books to their Distance Learning course and Trainer Package purchases. When you add e-books to your Distance Learning course and/or Trainer Package order, you get unlimited access to the purchased e-books on RedShelf, the leading digital content delivery company.
BENEFITS of E-BOOKS:
- Read Anywhere
RedShelf's cloud-based eReader is convenient and can be
accessed from many different devices.
- Searchable
Can't remember the page or lesson number? Search for your key
term and go straight to the right spot.
- Highlight sections and take notes
Keep track of your thoughts and see all of your notes in one
convenient view.
COURSE MATERIALS
The student course is anchored by the Professional Training Textbook, which contains 17 chapters grouped into 7 units of related topics. Each chapter corresponds with one or more Workbook lesson(s). The online learning system supports the information in the Textbook and Workbook and houses interactive exercises, additional resources, the chapter tests, and the final examination.
The Trainer Package is meant to be used by the licensed professional providing training to the apprentice going through the student course. The Trainer Manual mirrors the units, chapters, and lessons in the Textbook and Workbook with an overview of the content covered and additional tips and tricks specifically for the trainer. The Online Trainer Toolbox houses additional clinical, business, and training resources as well as copies of the digital exercises.
An additional breakdown of the course materials is below.
Resource
Content
Purpose
Textbook
Theory, background, and in-depth information on the topics covered in the course
Read the textbook chapter first to get a base understanding of the concepts. Each chapter corresponds with one or more Workbook lesson(s).
Workbook
Practical application of the concepts covered in the Textbook. Learning objectives, key terms, and exercises.
Read the workbook lesson after the chapter. Complete the exercises for each lesson and discuss with your trainer.
Online Learning System
Additional resources, flashcards, chapter tests, and the final exam.
After completing the readings and exercises (some of which are included in the online learning system) and exploring the additional resources, take the chapter test. After taking all of the chapter tests, take the final exam. Once you pass the final exam, you will earn the Certificate of Completion.
Trainer Package
The Trainer Manual, 4th Edition which contains an overview of the content covered in the Textbook and Workbook for the trainer. Learning objectives, trainer tasks, assessments, the exercises, and their answers included. Also includes an online system, the Trainer Toolbox.
Read the lesson(s) the trainee is reading. Identify the learning objectives, trainer tasks, and practical skills. Discuss the content with the trainee, complete the trainer tasks, and fill out the lesson evaluation. Log on to the Trainer Toolbox for additional resources and copies of the digital exercises.
E-Books (available as an add-on for an additional charge)
Add e-books to your purchase and, in addition to the physical books you order, get unlimited access for one person to electronic versions.
Study on the go and have reference material available at your fingertips with searchable e-books! Highlight important sections, take notes, and have access anywhere with the cloud-based eReader.
Questions? Email us at education@ihsinfo.org.
COURSE MATERIALS
The student course is anchored by the Professional Training Textbook, which contains 17 chapters grouped into 7 units of related topics. Each chapter corresponds with one or more Workbook lesson(s). The online learning system supports the information in the Textbook and Workbook and houses interactive exercises, additional resources, the chapter tests, and the final examination.
The Trainer Package is meant to be used by the licensed professional providing training to the apprentice going through the student course. The Trainer Manual mirrors the units, chapters, and lessons in the Textbook and Workbook with an overview of the content covered and additional tips and tricks specifically for the trainer. The Online Trainer Toolbox houses additional clinical, business, and training resources as well as copies of the digital exercises.
An additional breakdown of the course materials is below.
Textbook
Contains: Theory, background, and in-depth information on the topics covered in the course
How to use: Read the textbook chapter first to get a base understanding of the concepts. Each chapter corresponds with one or more Workbook lesson(s).
Workbook
Contains: Practical application of the concepts covered in the Textbook. Learning objectives, key terms, and exercises.
How to use: Read the workbook lesson after the chapter. Complete the exercises for each lesson and discuss with your trainer.
Online Learning System
Contains: Additional resources, flashcards, chapter tests, and the final exam.
How to use: After completing the readings and exercises (some of which are included in the online learning system) and exploring the additional resources, take the chapter test. After taking all of the chapter tests, take the final exam. Once you pass the final exam, you will earn the Certificate of Completion.
Trainer Package
Contains: The Trainer Manual, 4th Edition and online Trainer Toolbox. The Trainer Manual has an overview of the content covered in the Textbook and Workbook, learning objectives, trainer tasks, assessments, the exercises, and their answers. The Trainer Toolbox has copies of the digital exercises, clinical, business, and training resources.
How to use: Read the lesson(s) the trainee is reading. Identify the learning objectives, trainer tasks, and practical skills. Discuss the content with the trainee, complete the trainer tasks, and fill out the lesson evaluation. Log on to the Trainer Toolbox for additional resources and copies of the digital exercises.
E-Books
(available as an add-on for an additional charge)
Contains: In addition to the physical books you order, get unlimited access for one person to electronic versions when e-books are added to the bundle.
How to use: Study on the go and have reference material available at your fingertips with searchable e-books! Highlight important sections, take notes, and have access anywhere with the cloud-based eReader.
Questions? Email us at education@ihsinfo.org.
COURSE OUTLINE
The Student Course and the Trainer Package mirror one another and are broken into the same units. The Trainer Manual has the same lesson structure as the Workbook and the Trainer Manual lessons include an overview of information from both the Textbook and the Workbook.
Distance Learning for Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences
Table of Contents
Unit 1 - The Professional At Work
Textbook Chapter 1: The Profession
- Workbook Lesson 1: Your Future - Your Profession
- Workbook Lesson 2: Ethics and Laws
Textbook Chapter 2: Infection Control in Hearing Aid Dispensing Practices
- Workbook Lesson 3: Infection Control Principles in the Hearing Healthcare Setting
Textbook Chapter 3: Pre-Audiometric Assessment
- Workbook Lesson 4: Exploring the Hearing Loss
- Workbook Lesson 5: Otoscopy and Bracing
Unit 2 - Hearing and the Auditory System
Textbook Chapter 4: Acoustics and Psychoacoustics
- Workbook Lesson 6: Acoustics
- Workbook Lesson 7: Psychoacoustics
Textbook Chapter 5: Outer Ear, Middle Ear, and Disorders
- Workbook Lesson 8: The Outer Ear
- Workbook Lesson 9: Disorders of the Outer Ear
- Workbook Lesson 10: The Middle Ear
- Workbook Lesson 11: Disorders of the Middle Ear
Textbook Chapter 6: Inner Ear and Disorders
- Workbook Lesson 12: The Inner Ear
- Workbook Lesson 13: Cochlear and Retrocochlear Disorders
Textbook Chapter 7: The Central Auditory Pathways and Disorders
- Workbook Lesson 14: The Central Auditory Pathways
- Workbook Lesson 15: Central Auditory Pathways Disorders
Unit 3 - Audiometric Assessment and Additional Testing
Textbook Chapter 8: Pure Tone Audiometry
- Workbook Lesson 16: Introduction to Audiometric Evaluation
- Workbook Lesson 17: Pure Tone Air Conduction Audiometry
- Workbook Lesson 18: Pure Tone Bone Conduction Audiometry
- Workbook Lesson 19: Masking for Air Conduction
- Workbook Lesson 20: Masking for Bone Conduction
Textbook Chapter 9: Speech Audiometry
- Workbook Lesson 21: Speech Acoustics
- Workbook Lesson 22: Speech Audiometry
- Workbook Lesson 23: Masking for Speech Audiometry
- Workbook Lesson 24: Additional Testing for the Hearing Aid Fitting
Textbook Chapter 10: Immittance Measures
- Workbook Lesson 25: Acoustic Immittance
Unit 4 - Interpretation and Presentation of Audiometric Test Results
Textbook Chapter 11: Interpretation and Presentation of Audiometric Test Results
- Workbook Lesson 26: Audiometric Interpretation
- Workbook Lesson 27: Interpreting Speech Audiometry
- Workbook Lesson 28: Presenting the Test Results to the Patient/Client and Family
Unit 5 - Ear Impressions, Acoustic Couplers, and Hearing Aids
Textbook Chapter 12: Ear Impressions and Earmolds
- Workbook Lesson 29: Ear Impressions
- Workbook Lesson 30: Earmolds and Other Acoustic Couplers
Textbook Chapter 13: Hearing Aids
- Workbook Lesson 31: Hearing Aid History
- Workbook Lesson 32: Hearing Aid Technology
- Workbook Lesson 33: Hearing Aid Styles and Applications
Unit 6 - Hearing Aid Fitting and Delivery
Textbook Chapter 14: Hearing Aid Fitting
- Workbook Lesson 34: Hearing Aid Electroacoustic Measurements (ANSI Standards)
- Workbook Lesson 35: Hearing Aid Candidacy
- Workbook Lesson 36: Accessibility Considerations
- Workbook Lesson 37: The Delivery
Unit 7 - Post-Fitting Care and Counseling
Textbook Chapter 15: Fitting Verification and Validation
- Workbook Lesson 38: Fitting Verification
- Workbook Lesson 39: Fitting Verification Protocols
- Workbook Lesson 40: Fitting Validation
Textbook Chapter 16: Counseling and Aural Rehabilitation
- Workbook Lesson 41: Counseling
- Workbook Lesson 42: Beyond Hearing Aids
Textbook Chapter 17: Maintenance and Repairs
- Workbook Lesson 43: Maintenance and Repair
Case Studies
- Workbook Lesson 44: Case Studies
FINAL EXAMINATION
Students must pass the final examination with a score of 75% or greater. A Certificate of Completion will be awarded upon fulfillment of the course requirements.
Please review this important information regarding the final exam:
- The online exam is not printable. It is closed-book.
- The exam is comprised of 100 multiple choice questions
- Students have two hours to complete the final examination without pause.
- Students may change their answers an unlimited amount of times without penalty, during the exam window.
- Students must answer each question before hitting the submit button.
- Upon receiving a passing score and completing all Chapter Tests, students will be emailed the Certificate of Completion within one week.
Questions? Please contact education@ihsinfo.org.
FAQs
How do I become a Hearing Aid Specialist?
Learn more on our Become a Hearing Aid Specialist page.
I have the 2016 Edition (the blue and orange books), what is changing for me?
The 2016 Edition of the course will only be supported through May 31, 2023. Learn more here.
How do I access the online learning system?
To gain access to the online learning system, open your workbook and follow the instructions on the inside cover access sticker and in the letter included in the box. You'll need to create an account, then enter your unique access code to enroll in the correct course. Access codes can be used only once and will only work for the course they are meant for - Trainer Manual codes cannot be used for the student course and vice versa. Bookmark the website to return and login anytime.
I'm having trouble redeeming my Access Code on Achieve - what's wrong?
First, make sure you're at https://achieve.macmillanlearning.com. If you just type "macmillan" in your search bar, it will likely take you to their store page, which won't work! If you're on the correct site and still having problems, contact IHS at education@ihsinfo.org.
Which course package should I buy?
Take this quiz to figure out which package will best suit your needs.
The online learning system says my access will run out, is that true?
No, you will have unlimited access to the online learning system for the life of this edition of the Distance Learning course.
Why can't I see all of the sections in order on Achieve?
You can change the way you view the content in Achieve. Near the top of your 'My Course' page, there will be a dropdown box. You should see, "VIEWING BY: ASSIGNMENTS." Click where it says, "Assignments" and change it to "Course Content." This will make it so you see all of the content folders in order. Once you change this view setting once it will be saved for every time you log back in to the site.
It looks like all of the tests are due on 12/31, why is that?
The tests are due on 12/31/2026. You will have unlimited access to the online learning system for the life of this edition of the Distance Learning course.
Can I use my work computer to take the course?
Yes. One great benefit to the online learning system is that it's web-based, so you can access it from any computer, any time you have an internet connection.
What is the average time it takes for a person to complete the program?
This is an independent, self-study course and you set your own pace. On average, it takes students about 6 months to complete the course. Some jurisdictions have requirements about the length of training, so be sure to refer to any applicable laws/rules.
I completed the course. When will I get my Certificate of Completion?
The Certificate of Completion will be emailed to you from an @ihsinfo.org email address within one week of completing the course. If you don't see it in your inbox, check your spam/junk folder. If it has been more than a week and you still don't see it, contact IHS at education@ihsinfo.org.
How do I go about finding a trainer/mentor?
You may use the Directory located on the IHS website to search for hearing professionals in your area. Once you've identified individuals/clinics local to you, contact them to see if they are hiring.
I don't have a trainer or mentor. Can I still take the course?
Anyone can purchase and complete the course from IHS at any time. The course provides the most benefit when completed at the same time as hands-on training, but IHS does not require students to have a trainer/mentor in place before beginning the course. Verify all state/provincial requirements before beginning the course (contact information for state/provincial licensing agencies can be found here.)
Can IHS provide the correct answers to the final exam?
Unfortunately, we cannot provide correct answers because it would jeopardize the integrity of the course.
How do I become an IHS member?
Click here to learn more about IHS membership and join today! Student membership is only $40 (USD) and provides myriad benefits to early-career professionals.
Can I share access to my e-books with multiple people?
No, e-book access is an added benefit only for people who have purchased the physical course materials. When you add e-books to your purchase, you will get one access code per included book. Those access codes grant unlimited access for one person to those e-books. Additionally, e-books do not include the online learning system, meaning they cannot provide the tests or Certificate of Completion.
SHIPPING & RETURNS POLICY
IHS Shipping Policy
All prices are in US currency.
Orders are shipped from the IHS office 2-3 times a week. If you need priority shipping please call us at 734.522.7200 to inquire about shipping options. You may also email us at orders@ihsinfo.org.
Shipping Options for Destinations Within the United States
(Typical times from UPS' acceptance of parcel for shipping)
- UPS Ground - Delivery within 2-5 days to all 50 states and Puerto Rico
- UPS Second Day - Delivery by the end of the second business day to all 50 states and Puerto Rico, with some limitations in Alaska and Hawaii
- UPS Next Day Saver - Delivery by end of day on next business day in the 48 contiguous states and limited addresses in Alaska and Hawaii
Shipping Options for Destinations Outside the United States
(Typical times from UPS' acceptance of parcel for shipping)
- UPS Worldwide Express - Delivery within 1-3 days by 12 noon
- UPS Worldwide Saver - Delivery within 1-3 days by end of day
IHS Return Policy
We will refund your online book purchase if you:
- Return new books and unopened merchandise in their original condition. Shrink-wrapped products must be unopened. Used or damaged books cannot be returned. Any access codes contained in your purchase must be unredeemed to be eligible for a refund.
- Include your receipt/packing slip (titled “Invoice”) and a written explanation for the return.
- Return within 21 days of the shipment date listed on your packing slip.
- Ship all returns to: IHS, 16880 Middlebelt Road, Ste. 4, Livonia, MI 48154
Note:
- Shipping charges are not refundable.
- Returns made to IHS within 21 days of the shipment date will be refunded in the form of the original payment method.
- Lost your packing slip? Please contact IHS at 734.522.7200 to obtain your order number and return instructions.
- You should expect to receive your refund within four weeks of giving your package to the return shipper; however, in many cases you will receive a refund more quickly. This time period includes the transit time for us to receive your return from the shipper (5 to 10 business days), the time it takes us to process your return once we receive it (5 to 10 business days), and the time it takes your bank to process our refund request (5 to 10 business days). We'll notify you via e-mail of your refund once we've received and processed the returned item.
- Membership Certificates, "Have You Heard Brochures," and e-books are non-refundable.
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