Dangerous Decibels: Outreach and Educator Resources

The Dangerous Decibels DVD is a multilayered introduction to how we hear (simple or more complex versions), what decibels are, types of hearing loss, how to protect ears, tinnitus (short or fuller version with testimonial), and more.

It includes demonstrations of classroom activities that can be done, and is fun and appropriate for children in a classroom. Comes with a fold-out poster (7"x24") that shows decibels levels and exposure time limits for everyday sounds and how to prevent noise-induced hearing loss.

To order a copy of the Dangerous Decibels DVD or a printed copy of the Teacher Resource Guide, please download our order form.

The Dangerous Decibels Educator Kit is meant as a supplement to the Educator Training Workshop (see below). The Kit is not meant to train you how to present the Dangerous Decibels classroom program but provides many of the supplies you might need to develop your own program on prevention of noise-induced hearing loss.

Included in the kit:

Sound Level Meter
Pipe Cleaners (for stereocilia model)
Tuning Fork (physics of sound demo)
Ping Pong Balls
Dangerous Decibels DVD (info and activities)
Dangerous Decibels Teacher Resource guide
NHCA Sounds Like Fun CD
Dangerous Decibels How Loud Wheel - Hand held version
Ear Anatomy Poster
Hair Cell Photos (Before and After Noise Exposure)
DD Caution Signs
Web Resources List
and other fun and informative flyers and handouts

Download the Educator Kit order form

The Dangerous Decibels educator training workshops are designed to prepare and equip individuals to present a K-12 classroom program that is effective at changing knowledge, attitudes, and intended behaviors in students regarding their hearing health.

The two-day workshop (16 hours) will be lead by Oregon Health & Science University, Portland State University, and University of Northern Colorado hearing conservation, health communication, educational outreach experts. The workshop will include background information on hearing, anatomy, physics of sound, what are sources and effects of dangerous sounds, and how to protect hearing. Also included is instruction in classroom management, Dangerous Decibels hands-on activities, and an opportunity to deliver the program to workshop instructors for critique and feedback. Workshop instructors are available after the workshop for continued support and as a resource through email or phone.

If you would like to participate in a workshop, contact our office – 503-494-0670 or email howarthl@ohsu.edu. A workshop is scheduled for July 31 & August 1, 2008 in Portland Oregon. Please click here for the workshop brochure (PDF). Space is limited.

Download our free Dangerous Decibels Teacher's Resource Guide! A K-8 curriculum supplement with hands-on science activities about the anatomy and physiology of hearing, the physics of sound, and health-related behaviors for prevention of noise-induced hearing loss.

Jolene is a system for measuring the sound levels of personal stereo systems. She is part of the Dangerous Decibels education and research projects. Jolene was constructed using a used fashion mannequin and a sound level meter wired to a silicon ear. Jolene makes appearances at schools and universities, scientific meetings, health fairs, and many other public events. She always attracts a crowd and is helpful for promoting noise-induced hearing loss and tinnitus prevention. Jolene has also been used as a research tool to study the beliefs and listening practices regarding personal stereo systems.