Challenges Faced by Teachers in Using ICT Based Learning Strategies in Teaching Learners with Visual Impairment in Makwe Cluster: Gwanda District

Abstract

ICT in education plays a dynamic role which improves teaching and learning in the classroom by making the class very effective and exciting, especially for young learners. In a standard or public-school setup, where there are mixed ability learners and learners with disabilities, it is essential to make the learning environment more comprehensive and adaptive to the learners’ style of learning. The purpose of this study was thus to examine challenges faced by teachers in using ICT based learning strategies in teaching learners with visual impairment in Makwe Cluster in Gwanda District. Literature related to the study was also reviewed, in relation to the research questions of the study. The literature revealed that, until recently, ICT based education has not been effectively implemented in education, let alone the visually impaired learners. Qualitative methods of collecting data like questionnaires and interviews were used. The study involved randomly and purposively selected primary school teachers and administrators from Makwe Cluster primary schools in Gwanda District of Matabeleland South Province. The research findings were that learners with visual impairment in the Makwe Cluster do not have assistive technological/ICT devices, mainly due to the limited resources available to the rural and remote community. Similarly, the schools themselves have challenges in procuring resources, more so, for the learners with visual impairment as their assistive devices are very expensive. Shortage of resources is a major hindrance towards using ICT-based learning strategies to teach visually impaired learners. The study recommended that government and education administrators should provide material and financial assistance for vulnerable schools and learners in order for them to have equal opportunities of accessing quality education in their schools. This can be done through engaging related government ministries, donor organisations, parents, the community as well as the business fraternity to play a supporting role in the implementation of ICT-based learning for VIL using multi-sectorial approaches.