Hearing loss is the most common sensory impairment, affecting no less than 360 million people worldwide. It has a significant impact on the quality of life of individuals as well as on society as a whole. Due to the increasing exposure to noise, for example through personal sound devices like headphones, an estimated 1 billion young people worldwide are at risk of hearing loss. Raising awareness about this issue is crucial.
Why HoorLINK?
The Antwerp University Hospital and the University of Antwerp have joined forces to address this problem. In education, there is a great need for accurate and easily implementable information about hearing and hearing loss. HoorLINK was created out of this need. The project forms a bridge between science and education. Scientists possess knowledge about hearing and hearing loss, while teachers know exactly how to convey this information to their students. By working together, we can develop lesson packages that teachers can easily use, so young people are better informed about hearing care.
What does HoorLINK do?
- Developing lesson packages: We work hard to create educational materials that support teachers in giving lessons about hearing and hearing loss.
- Raising awareness: Through social media, events, and actions in schools, we aim to make young people aware of the risks and preventive measures they can take.
- Sustainable interaction center: HoorLINK strives to be a lasting collaboration between scientists and education, evolving with the latest developments in hearing research.