The Challenges and Availability of Assistive Technology for Visually Impaired English Language Teachers in Five Selected Schools in Wolaita Zone, Southwest Ethiopia

Abstract

The main aim of this study was to examine the challenges and availability of assistive technologies for visually impaired English language teachers. This study purposively selected seven visually impaired English teachers from five selected secondary and comprehensive schools in Wolaita zone. Interview was used to generate qualitative data for the study. Data were analyzed according to theme that emerged from the data but guided by main research objectives. The findings revealed that the lack of insufficient knowledge, time, communication channels and availability of assistive technology limited the visually impaired teachers’ ability to fully engage in practical activities and slowed the adoption process.