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Research Paper | Education Management | Zimbabwe | Volume 4 Issue 7, July 2015 | Popularity: 6.8 / 10

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Challenges Faced by Zimbabwean Special Schools in Providing Support Services to Learners Physical and Motor Impairments

Augustine Zano Muranda

Abstract: The study looked at the challenges faced by Zimbabwean special schools in providing support services to learners physical and motor impairments. The following two research questions underpinned the study. How suitable are the special school environments to meet the needs of learners with physical and motor impairments What challenges are special schools facing in provision of support services to learners with physical and motor impairments The study employed the descriptive study design. The population of the study was composed of all the teachers of learners with physical and motor impairments at three special schools in Harare, Zimbabwe. Non probability sampling methods were used to come up with a representative sample of 30 teachers. The questionnaire was the primary tool used to collect data while observation was used as a secondary data collection tool. The results showed that lack of facilities and resources is a big challenge affecting special schools. Many learners do not have access to assistive devices which enhance their teaching and learning. Also only one teacher worked with a class for the whole day. It was also found that the physical environments in these schools need to be adapted for the mobility of learners with physical disabilities. The study recommended that classroom assistants be provided as the play a vital role in assisting learners with physical and motor impairments. It was also recommended that the government should set aside a special budget which caters for special schools needs. Working conditions and salaries for teachers and other teachers in special schools should be revised to motivate the teachers as there is a challenge to work in these schools. There is need to offer more transport solutions for the mobility of learners with physical and motor disabilities.

Keywords: Special School, Rehabilitation, Habilitation, Support services, Physical and motor impairments, Life skills, Transitional programmes, Multi-disciplinary team, Assistive devices

Edition: Volume 4 Issue 7, July 2015

Pages: 406 - 410

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