Impact of assistive technology on the academic performance of students with hearing impairments in rural special schools of Rwanda.

Abstract

This thesis explores the Impact of Assistive Technology on the Academic Performance of Students with Hearing Impairments in Rural Special Schools of Rwanda. The study adopted a mixed methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis methods. The study employed a convergent parallel design, which involves collecting and analyzing both quantitative and qualitative data separately and then comparing and integrating the results. The data collection sources include questionnaires, interviews, and observation checklists administered to students, teachers, and head teachers in two rural special schools for the deaf. The study aims to analyze various assistive technologies available that facilitate the performance of students with hearing impairments, evaluate the level of knowledge of teachers about assistive technology and their integration in teaching and learning, assess the impact of assistive technology on the academic performance of students with hearing impairments, and identify the challenges and barriers faced by students, teachers, and schools in implementing assistive technology effectively. The findings revealed that assistive technology contributes positively to various facets of students' academic experiences, enhancing their learning outcomes and educational opportunities. The study highlighted the availability of different types of assistive technologies, such as hearing aids, FM systems, and captioning software, which facilitate the performance of students with hearing impairments. However, the level of knowledge and awareness among teachers about assistive technology and its integration in teaching and learning was found to be limited, emphasizing the need for continuous training and professional development. Based on the findings, the study provides the following recommendations: to develop and implement comprehensive training programs for teachers to enhance their knowledge and skills in utilizing assistive technology effectively, allocate adequate funding and resources to ensure the availability and maintenance of assistive technology devices in rural special schools,establish collaborative partnerships between schools, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations to facilitate the implementation and sustainability of assistive technology programs, promote awareness and sensitization campaigns to educate the community about the importance of assistive technology in supporting the education of students with hearing impairments, conduct further research to investigate the long-term impact of assistive technology on the academic and social outcomes of students with hearing impairments, and how these technologies can be applied into the local context.