Content Details | NUML Online Research Repository

Title English Language Learning by Blind and Visually Impaired Students in Pakistan: A Qualitative Study of the Experiences, Challenges and Solutions

Author(s) Gul Zamin Khan

Abstract Title: English Language Learning by Blind and Visually Impaired Students in Pakistan: A Qualitative Study of the Experiences, Challenges and Solutions This qualitative study explored the English language learning experiences and challenges faced by Blind and Visually Impaired (BVI) students in integrated classroom setting through the lens of interpretivism, which assumes the “out-there reality” as a construction of individual experiences and culture. The study sought to unravel the challenges confronted and the experiences of the students and their teachers in Pakistan. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with ten BVI students and five teachers having the experience of teaching at least one BVI student in a regular class. The semi-structured interviews focused on areas including language learning strategies, interpersonal relations with sighted peers and teachers, use of assistive technology, and obtaining study material in accessible formats. The findings of the study reveal that assistive technology was central to the learning process facilitated by self-advocacy and assertiveness by the BVI learners and good interpersonal relations within the class. The lack of easy access to study material and their inability to achieve written communication with their sighted teachers affected their sense of normalcy, independence, and self-esteem, however. The study recommends comprehensive training for the stakeholders to sensitize them to the special needs of BVI students in areas including but not limited to the use of assistive technology, access to study material and interpersonal skills. Keywords: Blind and Visually Impaired Learners; Assistive Technology; Accessibility; Interpersonal skills.

Type Thesis/Dissertation PhD

Faculty Languages

Department English

Language English

Publication Date 2023-08-07

Subject PhD English Linguistics

Publisher Department of English (GS)

Contributor(s) Dr. Arshad Mehmood

Format As per departmental guidelines

Identifier Dr. Khurram Shehzad (PhD English Program Coordinator)

Source PhD

Relation PhD

Coverage PhD

Rights PhD

Category PhD English Linguistics Thesis

Description PhD English Linguistics Thesis