Understanding Inclusion Through the Eyes of the Visually Impaired: Students Perceptions at Ghana National Basic School, Cape Coast


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 :

  1. 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
  2. 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
  3. 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
  4. 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.
  5. 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
  6. 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.
  7. Ministry of Education. (2015). Inclusive Education Policy. Accra, Ghana: Special Education Division.
  8. 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
  9. Osei-Poku, P., & Yawson, D. E. (2022). Teachers’ preparedness for inclusive classrooms in Ghana. Ghana Journal of Teacher Education, 3(2), 77–91.
  10. Rogoff, B. (2016). The cultural nature of human development. In M. Gelfand (Ed.), Handbook of Cultural Psychology (pp. 102–118). Oxford University Press.
  11. 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
  12. 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.

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Paper Submission Last Date
31 - December - 2025

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