Effects Of Hearing Impairment On Academic Performance Of Children In An Inclusive Setting, Ran En Zone, Rongo District Kenya

ABSTRACT

This paper explores the relationship between HJ and academic perfi~rmancc of

pupils in some of our public primary schools in Ranen Zone. Rongo District.

Kenya. It employs both quantitative and qualitative analysis covering the entire

zone which is about 68 square kilometers in area.

The research findings revealed that there were many 11.1 children in our regular

primary schools as there was 100% response from respondents on this fact. ilie

figures were bigger in lower primary than upper primary, signifying their drop

out in upper classes due to frustrations. Infections were the major ctwsc of 11.1

among learners represented by 67% and the ma~orily of whom fell under

moderate category. The attitude of regular learners, teachers and parents

towards H.I. learners was found to be negative. In terms of academic

performance they only managed to score between 20% and 39%. ~~hich is

below average performance. Learning was based on non modilied curriculum

that only favored regular learners.

I recommend that curriculum he modifled to cater for them. expectant mothers

should attend clinics for pre-natal care to guard against 11.1 infections. All

children should be immunized against infections of all kinds and the

government should carry out census of H.1 persons. involve them in day to day

learning and budget for their welfare. These would enhance assessment. correct

placement. medication as well as referrals. The government should also train

more special need teachers and post them to our regular public schools to assist

H.I learners in an inclusive setting. This would improve the academic

performance of H.T learners and enable them compete l~iirly ith the rest ol the

learners. Facilities such as hearing aid should be availed to aid their hearing in class and facilitate faster learning. This will deflnitely allow them to pass their KCP. E

examinations and join good government high schools.