Multi-sensory approach
The TTRS program is specifically designed to use a multi-sensory approach; we see the letters on the screen, we hear them over the headset and we touch them with our fingers.
We all learn most easily when the process is multi-sensory, allowing students to connect with what is being absorbed in more than one way and using our personal learning strengths.
Simultaneously hearing and seeing the words means the student learns the sound which is associated with a word's written appearance. This helps with word recognition and spelling accuracy.
When this is combined with the physical aspect of forming the word patterns using the fingers, muscle memory also starts to develop.
Headphones and speakers
Occasionally you may find a student - most often a younger one - is reluctant to wear headphones when using the TTRS course. This can be due to physical discomfort or an aversion to hearing the sound itself.
There might be a temptation to trigger the mute setting on the computer. However, this is where your judgement comes into play.
If the student is studying in a room alone, then try dispensing with headphones entirely - use the built-in speakers of the computer instead.
Make sure the volume on the computer is turned down to a comfortable level. Don't forget that different headphones will often require different sound levels.
It is worth spending some time considering what works best for each of your students according to their individual needs.