Academic Performance Of The Hearing Impaired Learners In An Inclusive School Setting: A Case Study Of Chiakariga Division, Tharaka District.

ABSTRACT

The study carried out a critical analysis and investigation on the academic

performance of the Hearing impaired learners in an inclusive setting (regular

schools). The study took Chiakariga Division, Tharaka District as a case study.

Previous studies indicate that a number of factors ranging from the lack of

audiological equipment, negative attitude of teachers towards the hearing

impaired learners are among the many forces behind their poor academic

performance in regular primary schools.

The researcher applied a purely quantitative research design in presenting and

interpreting the research findings. The technique of data collection used was

mainly the use of questionnaires with some key informant interviews to the

district officials. Selection of the samples was based on a simple Random

sampling procedure so as to give all the respondents equal chances of

participating in the study.

Research findings revealed that the causes of poor academic performance

among these learners are diverse but most importantly, the failure of the ministry

of education to address their learning needs given the fact that they need

adequate audiological as well as other learning equipments to facilitate their

learning.

A number of measures have been drawn up basing on the researchers

observation and conclusions of the research findings. These include among others: government’s drive towards providing for their hearing as well as learning

aids, change of teacher’s attitude in a positive direction and the need for the community to dedicate efforts towards supporting learners with special needs.