EFFECT OF ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF PUPILS WITH HEARING IMPAIRMENT IN SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF, BASSA

Abstract

This research investigated the effects of assistive technology on academic performance of 
pupils with hearing impairment in School for the Deaf, Bassa, Plateau State. Three 
hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. Quasi-experimental research design was 
employed in the study. A total of 20 primary four pupils consisting of 10 pupils in the 
experimental group and another 10 pupils in the control group participated in the study. The 
hypotheses formulated in the study were tested using t-test statistics. From the analysis of 
data collected, it was discovered that assistive technology instruction led to an improvement 
in the English language academic achievement of pupils with hearing impairment in School 
for the Deaf, Bassa. Assistive technology instruction led to an improvement in the 
Mathematics academic achievement of pupils with hearing impairment in School for the 
Deaf, Bassa. Also, it led to an improvement in the PHE academic achievement of pupils with 
hearing impairment in School for the Deaf, Bassa. Based on the findings of the study, it was 
recommended among others that adequate assistive technology media aids such as computers, 
internet, hearing aids, assistive listening devices should be made available in schools in order 
to improve the standard of instructional delivery to students with hearing impairment. 
Teachers should always use assistive technology media aids in teaching pupils with hearing 
impairment. Also, teachers should be given adequate training on the use of assistive 
technology to teach pupils with hearing impairment through workshops and conferences.