Browsing by Author "Muriithi, Francis Muriuki"

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    Effectiveness of Automated Speech Training System in Enhancing Speech among Hard of Hearing Learners in Selected Schools in Nairobi City County Kenya
    (Kenyatta University, 2019-04) Muriithi, Francis Muriuki
    Speech training of learners who are hard of hearing in Kenya has been lacking necessary attention since 1980s. Education of learners with hearing impairment including learners who are hard-of-hearing has been skewed towards manual communication. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of an Automated Speech Training System in enhancing speech among learners who are hard of hearing in selected schools in Nairobi City County. Objectives of the study were to: establish the level of speech perception and production of learners who are hard-of-hearing before using Automated Speech Training System, establish the effects of Automated Speech Training System on enhancing speech perception and production among learners who are hard of hearing, compare the effects of Automated Speech Training System on speech perception and production of learners who are hard of hearing with traditional methods of speech training, Find out the role played by selected demographic factors in the effectiveness of ASTS in enhancing speech among learners who are hard-of-hearing, establish the views of learners on communication modes and Speech training using traditional methods and Automated Speech Training System, and to find out the opinions of teachers on speech training of learners who are hard-of-hearing. The study adopted a mixed research design combining single-subject research design and descriptive survey design. Single-subject research design was considered for this study to allow systematic testing of the effects of the Automated Speech Training System on perception and production of speech among learners who are hard-of-hearing. The target population for the study was ninety four learners with hearing impairment and thirteen teachers in the selected schools. Using purposive sampling technique, thirty two learners who are hard of hearing and thirteen teachers were sampled. To collect data, the Automated Speech Training System was used and two semi-structured interview guides one for the learners and one for teachers. Statistical Package for Social Sciences was used to analyze quantitative data. Qualitative data was analyzed by means of descriptive statistical techniques. Major research finding of the study was that Automated Speech Training System which utilizes 3-D animation technology with both visual and audio components significantly enhanced speech among learners who are hard of hearing. Based on the research findings, the study recommended that the government should put in place policies and proper mechanisms of ensuring that speech training forms an integral part of curriculum for learners who are hard-of-hearing. This will not only help to address some of their communication challenges but also incorporate the new technology to the already existing methods of speech training to enhance speech of all learners who are hard-of-hearing.
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    Evaluation of educational audiological assessment process: a case study of audiology section at Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya
    (2012-04-19) Muriithi, Francis Muriuki; Otube, Nelly; Libese, L.
    Audiological assessment forms the basis for habilitation and rehabilitation for children and persons with hearing impairment in enabling them to become more productive to the society and lead an independent life. It is only through effective audiological assessment that their hearing acuity can be ascertained and early intervention initiated. This study evaluated audiological assessment process at audiology section of Kenyatta National Hospital. The objectives of the study were to find out how different variables like human resources (professionals) audiological facilities and equipments and audiological procedures interrelate during the entire assessment process. The literature reviewed in this study reveals that the earlier the assessment, by qualified professionals using the right audiological procedures and right audiological facilities and equipments, the better the outcomes. The study adopted a case study design utilizing both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The independent variables in the study were factors which lead to effective audiological assessment hence appropriate intervention while the dependent variable was educational audiological assessment. The target population was made up of 48 respondents who comprised 3 audiologists, 2 assessment teachers, 2 speech therapists, one (1) ear mould technician and 40 parents (clients) of children with hearing impairment. All the respondents were sampled using convenience sampling technique. Data was collected using researcher :- made questionnaire, parents (client) interview guide and participant observation technique by the researcher. Piloting was done at Embu Educational Assessment and Resource Centre which collaborates with Ear Nose and Throat department of Embu Provincial General Hospital. The data was analyzed using simple frequency tables and percentages. The findings of the study revealed that there was inadequacy of professionals in the audiology section, audiological facilities and equipments which limit the audiological procedures and services provided in the hospital. The available professionals collaborated quite well though the major challenge they encountered was funding. The study recommended more funding of the section, training and availing more professionals, more collaboration of professionals and creation of advocacy and awareness. Further, similar research has been recommended in other hospitals and for assessment of other types of disabilities like visual impairment and mental challenges.