If done properly, surveys can be a good way of determining how many people will benefit from the proposed system and also to promote the assistive listening system in general. It is important to note that surveys should not be used to decide whether or not a system should be installed at all. Unless the surveys are distributed in optimum conditions, the results will not reflect the needs of the entire congregation.

Survey results can raise some interesting dilemmas. What if only three people out of 150 say that they actually need an assistive listening system to hear? Is it 'worth it' to install a system for only three people? Think: how many wheelchairs does it take to justify a ramp? What about people who do not realize how much they would benefit from an assistive listening system but would try one if it were provided? What about people that no longer attend services because they were unable to hear? How would they be reached? How about visitors at weddings or funerals?

Still, surveys can be helpful in making choices and we suggest that more than one method be employed to distribute them. The bulletin insert is the most popular way but is not particularly effective. We suggest that, in addition to the insert, groups that meet in the building be surveyed while there. This increases the likelihood of a response. Informal interviews are often effective as long as the person being interviewed knows they are being surveyed and the information is recorded accurately.

Below is a sample survey that may be of benefit to you as you form your own plan. Most questions are appropriate for congregations without a system in place while the optional ones assume that a system is already functioning and tests congregational awareness and use.

The survey below is from the handbook of the Rochester Chapter of HLAA. Additional copies may be obtained for $1 by calling 585-266-7890. It is also available on the website: http://www.hlaa-rochester-ny.org They allow free duplication but request that reproductions in whole or in part be labeled as follows: "Reprinted with permission from Rochester HLAA."

Sample Hearing Loss Survey

We are currently evaluating ways to improve the ability of all people to hear during worship and meetings in our congregation. Please take a minute to fill out this brief survey to help us make a decision. Thank you for your assistance.

How often do you have problems hearing in our building?_____frequently_____seldom

If you ever have problems, can you be more specific about where and when you cannot hear? _______________________________________________

Do you ever avoid educational programs, religious activities, or other involvement because you may not be able to hear? _____frequently _____seldom

Do you wear a hearing aid or aids? _____yes _____no

If 'yes,' does your hearing aid have a T-coil? _____yes _____no _____do not know

Have you ever used an assistive listening device other than a hearing aid to help you hear? _____yes _____no

Would you use a hand held device to help you hear in our building if one were made available to you? _____yes _____no

Would you use headphones to help you hear in service if a set was made available to you? _____yes _____no

Do you have any preference between headphones, ear buds, or telecoil loop? _____yes _____no If so, which? ___________________________

Please share any other suggestions or ideas you have that will make our decision easier to make:
_____________________________________________________________________

Optional questions for places already equipped with assistive listening systems:

Are you aware of the assistive listening system used in the sanctuary? ______yes ______no

Is it useful? _____yes _____no
If 'no,' why not? _________________________________________________

Thank you for filling out this survey. Please drop the survey off in the office or place in the collection plate. We will keep you informed of the outcome of the survey and the results.