These are based on the telephone principle; however, Alexander Graham Bell had nothing to do directly with their development. These appeared first in limited quantities in a table model about 1899, but in wearable and practical instruments beginning only in 1902. Carbon aids were popular through the 1940's. Most of these used a rather large 3-volt or 6-volt battery but did not have enough power to assist those with more than a moderate hearing loss.

A.) Microphone
B.) Headset
C.) Battery

Unlike the carbon instruments, these had adequate power for severe hearing losses but were also usable by persons with a lesser loss. The first one appeared in 1921, but this type did not become practical until the early 1930's, and did not appear in a wearable version until 1934. Vacuum tube aids required two batteries, so costs were rather high.

A.) Ear Receiver
B.) Microphone/Amplifier
C.) Batteries

Hybrid hearing aids use a combined digital/analog circuitry. The first patent for hybrid technology was received in 1977 and the first commercial release of a digital chip to be integrated in an analog hearing aid occurred in 1986. These hearing aids have greatly increased our flexibility in fitting the hearing-impaired population.

The earliest appearance of these instruments is unknown, but they became very popular in the 1800's and a few were made in Europe as late as the 1960's. These hearing aids have a unique appearance and were often cumbersome to use. They also provided limited benefit, particularly for those with more than a mild to moderate hearing loss.

London Dome

Hand engraved sterling silver. Made by F.C. Rein in London, England about 1850. This is the oldest item in the museum. The dome measures 7.1 cm high by 6.8 cm in diameter.

Programs that require math and/or foreign language will require students to complete a placement assessment at least three days before attending TKS. 

To see if you need to take a placement test, check your personalized student checklist in FlashLine. You can learn more about placement tests here.

Graduate students enrolled in Speech Language Pathology and Audiology provide direct services under the direct supervision of licensed Speech Language Pathologists and Audiologists. Our experienced Speech Language Pathologists and Audiologists typically teach our graduate student clinicians using live supervision.

We provide diagnostics and treatments of pediatric and adult clients with articulation, phonology, fluency, language, feeding, neurological, cognitive and voice disorders. We utilize high and low tech augmentative and alternative devices to increase the functional, non-verbal communication abilities with those who require it.  We also address communication and social skills with pediatric, KSU students and adults who have autism spectrum disorder.  

More insurance information coming soon.

We happily see people of all ages.