Strategies Employed by Teachers When Using Assistive Technology to Teach Mathematics to Learners with Visual Impairments in Special Primary Schools in Kenya

International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI) | Volume VI, Issue VIII, August 2019 | ISSN 2321–2705

Strategies Employed by Teachers When Using Assistive Technology to Teach Mathematics to Learners with Visual Impairments in Special Primary Schools in Kenya

Chege Mary Wairimu, Joel M. Chomba, Beatrice Bunyasi Awori

Department of Special needs Education, Kenyatta University, P.O. Box 43844-00100 Nairobi, Kenya
Corresponding Author: Chege Mary Wairimu

Abstract:-There has been a problem in Mathematics of learners with Visual Impairments as a result of inadequate Assistive Technology and reluctance of teachers to apply appropriate teaching strategies when teaching Mathematics using Assistive Technology in special primary schools. With this regard, this study sought to identify strategies employed by teachers when using Assistive Technology to teach Mathematics to learners with Visual Impairments in special primary schools in Kenya. A descriptive research design was adopted to carry out the study. Purposive sampling technique was applied to sample classes 7 and 8 from the five selected special primary schools in Kenya. Classroom observation schedule was used to gather the information. Study data which was qualitative in nature was analysed manually through identification, examination and interpretation of patterns and themes in textual data. The study established that teachers of Mathematics used inappropriate teaching strategies while teaching Mathematics to learners with Visual Impairments. The study concluded that; inappropriate use of teaching methods and instructional strategies is real and this has contributed to lack of interest in working out Mathematics problems leading to a decline of Mathematics performance. The study recommends that the government through Ministry of Education to conduct regular classroom supervisions to ensure efficient use of appropriate teaching strategies in the special primary school in Kenya.

Keywords: Assistive Technology, Learners with Visual Impairments and Strategies

I. INTRODUCTION

Education plays a crucial role in helping a nation achieve its national aspirations (MOE, 2009). It is through education that a country produces and determines the type of human resource that will determine the required development. This is why the educational aspirations of a country are expressed in its National goals which are broad long term statements of intended achievements for all levels of education. Ability to work out Mathematic problems is a necessary and valuable life skill (Stein, 2013). Whether you are paying bill, shopping for groceries or cooking from a recipe, Mathematics skills are important.

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