Learner Perception on Tactile Materials as a Correlate of Performance in Mathematics: The Case of Thika High School for the Blind, Kiambu County, Kenya
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Date
2024-05
Authors
Musango, Loise Mumbua
Murugami, Margaret Wangui
Wamunyi, Joel Chomba
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
IJSRA
Abstract
Mathematics is considered the foundation of scientific and technological growth, making one of the most important
subjects taught in formal schools. Yet learners with visual impairment continue to perform poorly in Mathematics due
multiple factors, among them unfavorable perceptions on the subject. Drawing from the social constructivism theory,
this study aimed to establish learner perception on tactile materials as a correlate of performance in Mathematics
among learners in Thika High School for the Blind. The objectives were to investigate general performance of
mathematic among the learners who are blind and assess learners’ perception on the mathematic tactile learning
materials in relation to their performance in Mathematics. This study used a case study research design. The target
population comprised 80 learners who are blind in the school. Stratified random sampling was used to select the
learners 24 who are blind according to class and gender. Questionnaires were used to collect data. Quantitative data
was collected, coded and organized. Data analysis was through descriptive summaries and correlational analyses. There
was a weak positive relationship between learners’ perception in learning Mathematics and performance in
Mathematics (r = 0.203, p = 0.342). The majority the students indicated doing their homework daily when given by the
teacher, getting homework marked daily, and doing homework alone daily. Therefore, this study recommends the need
for the Ministry of Education to initiate strategies to enhance positive perceptions toward Mathematics among learners
who are blind.
Description
Article
Keywords
Tactile learning resources, Blind, Performance in Mathematics, Perception, Visual impairment
Citation
Musango, L. M., Murugami, M. W., & Wamunyi, J. C. (2024). Learner perception on tactile materials as a correlate of performance in mathematics: The case of Thika high school for the Blind, Kiambu County, Kenya.