School testing headphones are quickly becoming a staple for students across the country, and it’s important to find headphones that are compatible with Chromebooks while also providing an optimal listening experience. With a plethora of headphone options available, it’s integral that educators and parents know which headphones will provide the best learning experience for children. Those in the market for headphones should consider the available styles, budgetary concerns, quality, and compatibility when deciding on the right model. Read on to learn more about these factors when choosing a school headphone.
Style
There is an assortment of headphone styles available for K-12 students. For example, disposable earbuds are quickly growing in popularity with middle and high school students since they find them less cumbersome. They’re popular with educators because they filter out background noise and students simply throw them away once testing is completed. On-ear and over-ear headphones are also a popular choice, blocking out background noise without needing to worry about whether or not they’ll fit in students’ ears (smaller children may have issues finding properly fitting earbuds). Some tests require a microphone to assess vocal response. Take the time to think about which option is right for your classroom.
Budget
Let’s be honest, education budgets can be extremely tight for educators. Classroom sets can last for years, but not every classroom can afford the upfront costs. Many teachers opt for disposable headphones due to the lower price point, with many costing less than a dollar per set when purchased in bulk; however, there are even more ways to bring prices down. For example, disposable earbuds can feature silicone or foam ear tips—or none at all, with silicone tips costing the most and a lack of ear tips being the cheapest. Worried about purchases adding up? Many disposable models are now made for multi-day use, with many teachers finding more deluxe disposable models lasting the whole school year.
Quality
The old adage, ‘you get what you pay for,’ is true for almost anything, including headphones. While expensive doesn’t necessarily mean you’re getting the best model for your classroom’s needs, a quality pair of headphones will cost more. However, you can still find great headphones at an affordable price. The main thing to take into consideration is your students’ needs. Testing kindergarteners throughout the year? A properly maintained classroom set can last you a decade. Testing high school seniors once per quarter? A disposable, on-ear headset will likely work for you.
Compatibility
Finally, remember to double-check what type of audio plug your testing device requires. Most headphones utilize a traditional 3.5mm pin plug, but some models include a USB plug. Find the right headphones by making sure you find a set with the right plug.
Finding the right school testing headphones can feel like an uphill battle if you don’t know exactly what you’re looking for; however, once you know what you need, the process is significantly easier. Remember to look at the headphones’ style, price, quality, and compatibility, and you’ll find the right set for your students in no time.