Assessment of the Practices of Early Childhood Education for Children with Visual Impairment: the Case of German Church School in Addis Ababa
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Date
2015-03
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Early childhood experiences are very imperative in affecting children’s holistic development and
also their capacity to contribute to the wellbeing of the society. However, this possibility is not
merely accessible for many children with visual impairments. The purpose of this study was to
assess the practices of early childhood education for children with visual impairment regards to
the instructional practices, accessibility of classroom and outside classroom physical
environment and parent school communication. Moreover, the study was aimed to identify the
good practices and challenges in supporting preschool children with visual impairment. In order
to attain the purpose, interview, FGD and field observations were employed. Results indicated,
the school is offering snack, guidance and counseling service, medical and financial support.
The results for analysis provided the specific information of instructional contents, in some way
given attention to the socio emotional, mathematical and language development of children.
However, instruction is failed to notice the value of storytelling, singing, creative movement, and
play that help children to promote their development. The study finds out less attention is given
for family role at home in supporting children with visual impairment. Also, lack of
documentation is noticed as a challenge. Classroom is accessible for children with visual
impairment; Pathways, water taps and the toilet are also favorable and accessible however,
there are no outdoor playing materials. In order to improve the beginner class services for
children with visual impairment, research forwards the school to use age appropriate
instruction, build up documentation of academic records and advancement in parent school
communication. Also the researcher forwards to government officials working together to make
preschools accessible for children with visual impairment
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The Case of German Church School in Addis Ababa