Authors :
Dominic Nurubome
Volume/Issue :
Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 7 - July
Google Scholar :
https://tinyurl.com/jwuevfms
Scribd :
https://tinyurl.com/4b7t4cxp
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25jul1820
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Abstract :
The advancement of inclusive education in Ghana represents progress toward educational equity. However, challenges
remain, particularly for students with visual impairments. This study investigated the perceptions of such students at Ghana
National Basic School in Cape Coast. It aims to understand their academic and social experiences within a mainstream
environment. Guided by Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Theory, the research used a phenomenology research design involving 11
participants purposively selected (8 students, 2 teachers and a special educator) with visual impairments. Data were collected
through structured questionnaires focused on academic participation, peer interaction, and support systems. Findings indicate
that while students value the opportunity to learn alongside sighted peers, there are significant gaps in instructional access,
teacher preparedness, and learning materials. Social inclusion is generally positive, but academic support is inconsistent. The
study emphasizes the need for professional development in inclusive pedagogy, increased provision of accessible learning tools,
and the establishment of structured peer mentoring systems.
Keywords :
Inclusive Education, Visual Impairment, Sociocultural Theory, Academic Access, Peer Support, Ghana.
References :
- Anthony, J. H. (2019). Addressing barriers to inclusive education in Ghana. International Journal of Inclusive Education, 23(5), 456–472. https://doi.org/10.1080/13603116.2018.1464075
- Avoke, M., Opoku, M. P., & Ntim, S. (2023). Inclusive education practices and challenges in basic schools in Ghana. African Journal of Disability Studies, 8(1), 1–12. https://doi.org/10.4102/ajod.v8i1.721
- Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2019). Reflecting on reflexive thematic analysis. Qualitative Research in Sport, Exercise and Health, 11(4), 589–597. https://doi.org/10.1080/2159676X.2019.1628806
- Donkor, A., & Agyemang, E. (2023). The effect of peer tutoring on inclusive learning outcomes in selected Ghanaian schools. Ghana Journal of Education and Practice, 14(2), 104–117.
- Florian, L., & Spratt, J. (2022). Developing inclusive pedagogy through teacher education. European Journal of Teacher Education, 45(1), 21–38. https://doi.org/10.1080/02619768.2021.1988852
- Kpeglo, S., Nyarko, P., & Osei, D. (2022). Experiences of learners with disabilities in inclusive schools in Ghana. Journal of Disability Studies in Africa, 12(1), 1–14.
- Ministry of Education. (2015). Inclusive Education Policy. Accra, Ghana: Special Education Division.
- Opoku, M. P., Olsen, H. P. B., & Nartey, D. (2021). Inclusive education in Ghana: Policy, practice, and progress. International Journal of Inclusive Education, 25(3), 215–230. https://doi.org/10.1080/13603116.2020.1726514
- Osei-Poku, P., & Yawson, D. E. (2022). Teachers’ preparedness for inclusive classrooms in Ghana. Ghana Journal of Teacher Education, 3(2), 77–91.
- Rogoff, B. (2016). The cultural nature of human development. In M. Gelfand (Ed.), Handbook of Cultural Psychology (pp. 102–118). Oxford University Press.
- Sharma, U., Forlin, C., & Loreman, T. (2020). Impact of teacher training on attitudes and knowledge of inclusive education in Ghana. Asia-Pacific Journal of Teacher Education, 48(3), 301–317. https://doi.org/10.1080/1359866X.2020.1743039
- UNESCO. (2020). Global education monitoring report 2020: Inclusion and education – All means all. https://en.unesco.org/gem-report/report/2020/inclusion
The advancement of inclusive education in Ghana represents progress toward educational equity. However, challenges
remain, particularly for students with visual impairments. This study investigated the perceptions of such students at Ghana
National Basic School in Cape Coast. It aims to understand their academic and social experiences within a mainstream
environment. Guided by Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Theory, the research used a phenomenology research design involving 11
participants purposively selected (8 students, 2 teachers and a special educator) with visual impairments. Data were collected
through structured questionnaires focused on academic participation, peer interaction, and support systems. Findings indicate
that while students value the opportunity to learn alongside sighted peers, there are significant gaps in instructional access,
teacher preparedness, and learning materials. Social inclusion is generally positive, but academic support is inconsistent. The
study emphasizes the need for professional development in inclusive pedagogy, increased provision of accessible learning tools,
and the establishment of structured peer mentoring systems.
Keywords :
Inclusive Education, Visual Impairment, Sociocultural Theory, Academic Access, Peer Support, Ghana.